Please download the ETC Overview document: International Version, North American Version
In North America the ETC-30C is available which meets the requirements for Buy American, government funded projects.
Construction
The ETC solar collector is comprised of four main parts:
Evacuated Tube (ET)
Absorbs solar energy and converts it to usable heat. A vacuum between the two glass layers insulates against heat loss.
The Heat Transfer Fin helps to transfer heat to the Heat Pipe.
Heat Pipe (HP)
Copper vacuum pipe that transfers the heat from within the ET up to the manifold.
Manifold
Insulated box containing the copper header pipe. The header is a pair of contoured copper pipes with dry connect sockets that the heat pipes plug into.
Mounting Frame
Strong and easy to install with a range of attachment options.
Collector Operation
Step 1: The Apricus evacuated tube solar collector converts sunlight into heat. A circulation pump moves liquid through the collector, carrying heat back to the solar storage tank.
Step 2: Gradually throughout the day the water in the solar storage tank is heated up, either directly or via a heat exchanger (as shown).
Step 3: When hot water is used, solar pre-heated water is fed into a traditional water heater which boosts the temperature if not already hot enough.
Following these links for more information about: Solar System Design, Evacuated Tubes, Heat Pipes.
Collector Mounting
Apricus ETC solar collectors can be mounted on a roof, wall, the ground or custom built structure like shown below on the roof of a restaruarnt in South Korea.
Design Advantages
Evacuated Tube and Heat Pipe
The Apricus evacuated tube and heat pipe are assembled in a patented format that is different to any other product on the market. Rather than a centrally located heat pipe with heat transfer fins radiating out to the glass wall, the heat pipe is positioned directly against the glass wall, where the sun strikes. The aluminium heat transfer fin is tightly held against the top inner wall of the evacuated tube and heat pipe with a set of spring clips. This is an important design feature as over time, with exposure to high temperature, the Aluminium will soften. The spring clips gaurantee long term tight contact with the glass wall and heat pipe, which is essential for optimal performance.