Flat collector
What is the difference between vacuum tube and plane collector? We distinguish two basic types of solar collectors: vacuum tube and flat collector type solar collectors. The essence of the flat collector is that solar radiation arrives through a glass sheet onto the continuous absorber surface, which is designed to absorb as much radiation as possible.
The pipes of the circulating fluid run between them, which heat up with the help of the heat transferred by the absorber, and then heat the storage water through the heat exchanger. The system is protected by thorough thermal insulation: the annual performance of the collector depends primarily on the thickness of the thermal insulation and the absorption capacity of the absorber surface.
The big advantage is that it is an "eternal piece", its maintenance requirements are almost zero (at most the circulator fluid must be changed from time to time).
The vacuum tube collector consists of vacuum-insulated glass tubes laid next to each other, and the
heat absorbed inside the vacuum tube is transferred to the circulated liquid almost without loss. The advantage of the vacuum tube collector is that it has a greater
power and the vacuum provides perfect thermal insulation. The vacuum tubes should be checked from time to time.
Plane collector - how do I choose?
The use of solar energy is becoming more and more popular, and flat collectors are excellent tools for capturing and utilizing the sun's heat. However, there are many models available on the market, so the choice is not easy. To make the decision easier, we have collected the most important aspects that should be taken into account when buying a flat collector.
Size of the flat collector:
- There are different sizes on the market, it is true that they are all around 2 m2, but it does not matter at all whether it is 1.9 or 2.1 square meters! Although the difference does not seem large, it can significantly affect the performance of the collector. Larger collectors can capture more solar energy, making them ideal for households with greater heat needs.
Glass material:
- Smooth glass:The cheapest, but also the least efficient and prone to breaking.
- Heat-treated glass: It is stronger and does not break into splinters, but its light transmission ability is lower.
- Glass with low metallic content:It has the best light transmittance, microplasma, so it shines less, reflects less sunlight, which is why it is the most effective.
Cbelts
- so-called harp (the collecting pipes are arranged in a harp) can be made of aluminum and copper
- Aluminum: Cheaper, but less durable and not compatible with copper wires, which are the most common elements of solar collector systems .
- Copper:It is more durable, has better thermal conductivity and is compatible with copper wires.
Heat absorber:
- The heat sink, also known as the absorber, is responsible for converting solar energy into heat.
- Made with smooth matte black paint, it works, but it's not the real thing.
- A better solution is the so-called black chrome coating, whose ability to absorb heat is much better.
Insulation thickness:
- Insulation prevents heat loss. The thicker the insulation, the less heat is lost and the more efficient the collector. The minimum insulation thickness is 8 cm.
- The flat collector must not only absorb the heat, but also keep it inside!
- The better it is thermally insulated, the more heat it can transfer and the less it loses.
Other aspects:
- Price: The price of flat collectors varies widely. The size, the type of glass, the material of the pipes and the thickness of the insulation all affect the price.
- Warranty:Manufacturers usually offer a 5-10 year warranty on collectors.
In summary:
When choosing the perfect flat collector, the heat demand of the household, the size and orientation of the roof, the budget for the installation and the desired warranty conditions must be taken into account. Based on the above criteria, you can more easily find the model that suits you best.
Tips:
- We recommend that you seek expert advice before purchasing.
- Compare the technical specifications of different models.
In our online store you will find a wide selection of flat collectors. We also include a detailed description and technical specifications for the products so that you can more easily find the perfect heat source for your home.< /p>
In summary, a good planar collector is equipped with a large, heat-treated microprism glass, an absorber made of copper tubes, not plainly painted, and at least 8 cm thick.
