| Criterion
6.1.2.4
Collector Flow Rate/Distribution
Criteria
text:
In
multiple collector arrays, the instantaneous flow rate variations
between collectors shall not exceed 10% of the array average flow.
When an array of collectors is connected by manifolds to form
a parallel flow configuration, provision shall be incorporated
in the manifold and/or collectors to maintain the proper design
flow rate of the heat transfer fluid through each collector.
Comments:
In
the majority of systems certified by SRCC, this criteria is not
a major concern since most of the installed systems include only
1 or 2 solar collectors.
In
the event a large number of solar collectors are installed, a
method must be used to maintain proper system (and collector)
design flow rates. Two methods are commonly used:
- Plumbing
the collector array in such a manner that allows for proper
flow distribution through the individual units.
- Using
balancing valves to manually adjust the flow rate
Figure
1 illustrates the option of using a proper reverse piping strategy
and the use of balancing valves. The use of reverse return plumbing
in large collector arrays will provide equal flow rate distribution
through the collectors.
Figure
1
A
conventional manually set balancing valve is shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2
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