Two-port (variable flow) control strategy
Heat Interface Units (BG 62/2015) was written by Reginald Brown and published by BSRIA in December 2015. It states: ‘In two-port control, a two-port control valve varies the flow of water through the heat emitter in order to vary the heat output. A typical example of a two-port control valve is the thermostatic radiator valve. In order to achieve good control, the pressure differential across the valve should be relatively constant. This is achieved by utilising a variable speed circulation pump with pressure control. If a constant speed pump is used then the pressure differential increases as the valve closes, resulting in poorer control and waste of pump energy. The benefit of two-port control for the heat emitters associated with heat networks is that it minimises the return temperature.’
--BSRIA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- A technical guide to district heating (FB 72).
- Big growth in district heating markets - now and on the horizon.
- BSRIA articles.
- BSRIA definitions.
- BSRIA guide to heat interface units.
- Communal heating.
- Direct heat interface unit.
- District energy networks
- Domestic micro-generation.
- Heat interface unit.
- Indirect heat interface unit.
Featured articles and news
Homes, landlords. tenants and the new housing standards
What will it all mean?
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch-up on the latest episodes.
Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2026
Entries now open for this Electrical Contractors' Association award.
Traditional blue-grey slate from one of the oldest and largest UK slate quarries down in Cornwall.
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.
Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc
CIOB launches first-ever degree programme to develop the next generation of construction leaders.
Open for business as of April, with its 2026 prospectus and new pipeline of housing schemes.
The operational value of workforce health
Keeping projects moving. Incorporating unplanned absence and the importance of health, in operations.
A carbon case for indigenous slate
UK slate can offer clear embodied carbon advantages.
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.
The place for vitrified clay pipes in modern infrastructure
Why vitrified clay pipes are reclaiming their role in built projects.
Research by construction PR consultancy LMC published.
Roles and responsibilities of domestic clients
ACA Safety in Construction guide for domestic clients.
Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
Architect and manufacturer gives their low down.





















