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Usually, the user is not interested in the scheme of the device of the washing machine. But if a repair of equipment is suddenly planned, then you have to figure it out. You can perform an independent diagnosis or replace parts only by understanding how they work and where the SMA nodes are located.
Almost all front-loading washing machines are designed in the same way, with the exception of the location of some parts.
The internal structure of the washing machine
Before undertaking repairs, familiarize yourself with the principle of a modern washing machine.
The device of household washing machines is the same, whether they are models with vertical or front loading. Regardless of the brand (Indesit, LG, Samsung, Bosch), all parts are hidden in a metal case. The basis of the case includes: front, back, top covers, base. The type of loading determines the location of the hatch – horizontal or vertical.
The internal structure of an automatic washing machine consists of parts and assemblies that are responsible for a particular function. Let’s take a closer look at each detail.
Technical device of the washing machine
Let’s start with the most important thing – the “brain” of the washer.
Control module and electronics
The electronic module controls all parts in the machine. It signals to start or turn off through the wiring that connects the board and the CM node.
All programs, modes and functions are controlled and executed by the module. Therefore, if one of its elements fails, any part of the machine may stop working. In order to perform certain tasks: correctly pour water into the tank, control the engine speed during washing and spinning, the control unit has “assistants”.
Pressostat
A pressure switch or level sensor controls the amount of water in the tank. It does the job by measuring the pressure in the tank. Then it sends a signal to the electronic module. The control unit, in turn, commands the inlet valve to stop water intake.
Water intake valve
Depending on the type, the valve may have from one to three coils. These coils are energized, causing the valve diaphragm to open and fire. As soon as the unit gives a command, the membrane opens and water is drawn into the tank. After the electricity supply to the coils is interrupted, the membrane closes.
Tachogenerator
It is the tachometer that helps the electronic unit regulate the speed of the motor. After all, each washing or spinning program requires a different speed of rotation of the drum.
temperature sensor
The structure of the heating element in modern models “Ariston”, “Zanussi”, “Ardo”, “Electrolux” provides for the presence of a thermistor. The device is a metal tube that is installed in the heater housing.
The thermistor determines the degree of water heating by sending a signal to the module. The main unit turns off the heater when the water temperature rises to the desired level.
Other elements
These are wiring, control panel, command device, indicators. Everything that allows you to manage, set modes and programs in the washing machine.
Performing details
The device of a semi-automatic washing machine and an automatic machine provides for the presence of executing nodes. The electronic unit gives a command to the parts, after which they begin to work.
Electric motor
The motor in the washer rotates the drum at different speeds.
Modern cars have direct drive motors. These are inverter motors that are attached to the drum. They are more efficient, powerful and silent. Their design is reliable, so such motors break down very rarely.
Often there are collector motors. They transmit revolutions to the drum due to the drive belt.
Collectors are simple: their design contains a stator, rotor and brushes. Electric brushes are made of soft material, so they often need to be replaced as a result of wear.
Electric heater (TEH)
Serves for heating water in a tank. Each washing program requires a different water temperature. The electronic unit sends a given signal to the heating element, after which heating is performed. The thermostat controls the temperature and, after reaching the set values, sends a signal to the module.
How to replace the heating element in case of a malfunction, read the previous articles.
Sunroof locking device
This is an electronic door lock. Manually you close only the mechanical door lock. When the program starts, a click is heard, which indicates that the hatch is locked. Only then does water intake begin.
Learn how to replace UBL in a washing machine.
Drain pump
The pump allows you to pump out water from the tank after washing, rinsing. There are synchronous and asynchronous pumps.
What is the pump made of? From the inside, its design is the same: motor, impeller. A snail is located on top, to which a drain pipe, a hose is connected.
Most often, the pump breaks due to the ingress of foreign objects. If coins fall out of the pocket during washing, then they can fall into the drain. The filter, hose, pipe and the pump itself are clogged. Read how to clean it.
Tank design
The tank can be made of steel or plastic. From the latest developments – a polyplex tank. Depending on the manufacturer of the washing machine (“Atlant”, “Kandy”, “Whirlpool” and others), it can be:
- Collapsible. The two halves are held together with screws.
- Non-separable. The two parts are hermetically sealed.
Various elements and conclusions are connected to the tank. Let’s consider them in more detail.
Shock absorbers
Dampers or shock absorbers are parts that dampen vibrations during the operation of the AGR. The damper is attached to the bottom of the tank and to the body of the washer. With a strong spin, the tank will not bounce and beat against the wall.
springs
Springs hold the tank on top and perform the same function as shock absorbers. The upper hook of the spring is fixed to the body, the lower one – to the part of the tank.
Pulley
If the washing machine has a belt-driven motor, then a pulley is attached to the tub. A belt is put on it, which transmits the engine speed. The pulley rotates with the drum. Secured with a strong bolt in the center.
Counterweights
Heavy blocks are made of concrete or plastic. They are bolted to the outside of the tank to restore balance.
Over time, the counterweight can collapse due to strong vibration. But most often their fastenings are weakened, which can be tightened more tightly.
Drum
Located inside the tank, made of stainless steel. It has a cylindrical shape, there is a hole in the front for loading laundry. The back part serves for connection with a crosspiece and a tank. Inside, the entire surface of the drum is perforated, which allows you to drain the water.
Other details
It remains to deal with small elements that serve for the convenience of washing and automating the process.
Tray dispenser
The tray is divided into several parts (usually three). Powder for the main wash is poured into one of them, and the powder for the preliminary wash is poured into the second. The third compartment is used for liquid products and rinses.
The tray is placed in the hopper, to which hoses from the inlet valve are connected. Through them, water enters the compartments to collect the powder.
Rubber cuff
Sealing rubber is located on the hatch and serves to seal the door. One part of the rubber is attached to the body, the other is attached to the tank with clamps.
Hoses and fittings
The inlet hose is installed at the water inlet. The other part is attached to the body.
The drain hose is attached to the pump and sewer.
The pipe is installed from the tank to the pump. Water, draining from the tank, enters the pipe, and from there – to the pump.
There is a filler pipe that supplies water to the tank from the plumbing system.
As you can see, the design of the washing machine is quite complex and involves a lot of parts and components. If there is a repair to be done, it is worthwhile to thoroughly understand how this technique is arranged in order to facilitate disassembly, assembly and the repair procedures themselves.
More detailed information about each model of the washing machine can be found in the instructions.