Flat plate collectors

      Two flat plate solar collectors 300ltr.

• Flat-plate collectors are the most common solar thermal technology.  

• Enclosure containing 

• A dark-colored absorber plate with fluid circulation passageways.

• A transparent cover 

• The circulation fluid in tropical and sub-tropical climates is typically water. In climates where freezing is likely, a heat transfer fluid similar to an automotive antifreeze solution may be used instead of water, or in a mixture with water.

• The most common absorber design consists of copper tubing joined to a high conductivity metal sheet (copper or aluminum).

•  A dark coating is applied to the sun-facing side of the absorber assembly to increase its absorption of solar energy. 

• A common absorber coating is black enamel paint.

• In higher performance solar collector designs

• The transparent cover is tempered soda-lime glass having reduced iron oxide content same as for photovoltaic solar panels

• The glass may also have a stippling pattern and one or two anti-reflective coatings to further enhance transparency. 

• Absorber piping configurations include

• Most flat plate collectors have a life expectancy of over 25 years.