New test system

After running a test rig with two collectors for several months (on a scaffold tower next to the office!), we’re building a ten-collector system in a more permanent location. This one will have a more appropriate inclination for winter of about 60 degrees. We’re very pleased with the performance so Read more…

Digital sensors

We’re using external temperature sensors, always insulated from the outside. The Analog Devices / Maxim / Dallas Semiconductor DS18B20 is perfect for this, but the problem is that most ‘DS18B20’ sensors on the market are fakes; clones marked as the real thing. These work well for the most part, but Read more…

Insulated tank

We finally insulated the 1000-litre tank this morning with 100mm mineral wool plus a tarpaulin cover. Before this, the tank was un-insulated, which benefited us as it cooled overnight and allowed us to perform repetitive tests. It will be interesting to see how well the tank performs, and heat accumulates. Read more…

Stagnation testing

We ran the rest rig today, 18/08/2022, without the pump. The panel was dry. The panel temperature reached 92.88C. The ambient temperature at that time was 28.81C. So it’s possible to have the panel innards 64C hotter than the surrounding air, even in central Europe.