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Solar Thermal Photovoltaics
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Tony installed an Eco-58-1800-30 collector in August 2007, using a Resol RF pump station and BS4 variable pump speed controller. Tony writes: " I finished during August and I have
been running almost exclusively on solar water I used a 30 tube 58mm Panel Resol Pump station Resol BS4 Controller Total antifreeze contents of system is 5 litres My
biggest fear was getting the roof installation sorted. I was concerned about the
Initially I thought the double threaded bolts would be the correct way to mount the frame, but they were not long enough to reach the wood on my roof. These were changed for the straps which actually proved to be a better system and is what I would advise using. The pipe work installation was quite straight forward. I managed to keep the number of compression fittings to a minimum by using 15mm pipe benders. This proved to be the best way to go as most of the compression fittings leaked on first try. A full length tube with bends is also better for flow rates as compression elbows are very tight. The pump station made installation
straight forward. I wanted the display visible so it is mounted at the top of
the stairs and has proved very interesting. It does not matter One thing to do which doesn’t seem to have been covered by anybody is to earth bond you pipe work. You can usually cross bond it in the airing cupboard linking it to the cold feed pipe, just in case you have a fault. Another part that I want to mention is the air removal. I opted for the automatic air scoop, although slightly more expensive I didn’t fancy having the vent outside on the roof. I have had no trouble with this even when filling from dry. The air is easily extracted but it may take a little longer. If you need to have the pump running just temporarily add a 100 TO 200 ohm in series with the collector sensor ( gives a 25 to 55 deg C rise in indicated temperature). The station will then start the pump at 100%, this will then push the air from the manifold without much of a problem. Also opening the flow to the radiator is a quick way of extracting air. Just remember to keep the filling bottle pressurized so that it can make up the losses during purging. If you need to drain the system down and
like me you don’t have a convenient bleed I purchased a fully insulated tank - BUT! You must add extra insulation to the tank. I used B+Q space blanket wrapped round and tapped to seal. Pay special attention to the top of the tank and the pipe work that is connected to the top. You really will notice the difference in the reduction of heat loss. Overall this has been a very interesting
project. I have been impressed with the
This is a very neat and professional job which Tony has done. Note however that Armaflex pipe insulation can be left exposed.
Here is a view of Tony's home made lead tile. We are often asked about suppliers for special lead pieces, here is an example of how it is relatively easy to make your own.
Here is Tony's ingenious method of draining his system. Don't attempt this unless you can be quite sure you can prevent fluid entering the vacuum, which could be dangerous and cause serious problems! Thanks to Tony for providing this information.
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SW@eco-nomical.co.uk with questions or
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