Solar collector (definition)

solar collector is a device designed to convert solar energy into thermal energy, used to heat water, air or other coolants. Solar collectors are widely used in hot water supply, heating and air conditioning systems, as well as in industrial processes requiring thermal energy.

Despite the fact that a solar collector uses the sun's energy for heating, the technology differs significantly from solar panels and the method of extraction and accumulation thermal energy. A solar power plant first extracts electricity using photovoltaic panels, which is then used to heat the coolant and hot water. In this case electric heating absorbs energy received from the sun. But this is not efficient, so solar collectors are an ideal solution for preparing hot water and heating a room with a low-temperature circuit (warm floors).

Main components and operating principle of the solar collector:

1. Absorbing plate - the main element of the collector, which absorbs solar radiation and converts it into heat. The plate is usually made of high thermal conductivity materials such as copper or aluminum and coated with a special selective coating to improve absorption efficiency.
2. Transparent coating — protects the absorbing plate and reduces heat loss due to the greenhouse effect. This is usually tempered glass or a polymer material with high light transmittance.
3. thermal insulation — located on the rear and side walls of the collector to minimize heat loss and increase the efficiency of the device.
4. Coolant - a liquid or gas that circulates through tubes attached to the absorber plate absorbs heat and transfers it to the consumption system (for example, a hot water tank or heating system).
5. Frame — ensures protection of all components of the collector and tightness of the system, preventing the ingress of moisture and contaminants.

Solar collector: types

• Flat-plate solar collectors - The most common type, consisting of a flat absorbent plate covered with a transparent material. Suitable for most residential and commercial applications.
• Vacuum Tube Manifolds — consist of several glass vacuum tubes, each of which contains an absorbing element and a coolant. The vacuum provides excellent thermal insulation, making these collectors effective in cold climates.

Advantages of solar collectors:

• Environmental friendliness — the use of solar energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions and reduces dependence on fossil energy sources.
• Energy efficiency — the high efficiency of converting solar energy into heat can significantly reduce the cost of heating and hot water supply.
• Durability and low maintenance costs — modern solar collectors have a long service life and require minimal maintenance.

Application of solar collectors:

Solar collectors are widely used for heating water in residential and commercial buildings, maintaining heating systems, heating swimming pools and in industrial processes that require thermal energy. They also find application in air conditioning systems through absorption refrigeration machines.

Solar collectors provide an efficient and environmentally friendly solution for using renewable energy, promoting sustainable development and reducing energy costs. It is a worthy alternative to heating water with a boiler in the summer and electric heating for heating underfloor heating.