Forced Circulation Systems

A solar forced circulation system for hot water heating is an efficient way to harness solar energy to provide hot water for domestic or industrial use. The system relies on solar collectors to capture sunlight and uses a pump to circulate the heat transfer fluid through the system, ensuring consistent operation even when the collectors are installed at a higher elevation than the storage tank.

Key Components and Operation

Solar Collectors

Description: Flat-plate collectors or evacuated tube collectors installed on a roof or open area to absorb sunlight and convert it to heat. Operation: Sunlight heats the fluid circulating inside the collectors. Heat

Storage Tank

Description: A thermally insulated tank to store hot water. Operation: The heat from the transfer fluid is passed to the water in the storage tank via a heat exchanger.

Solar Controller

Description: A smart device that monitors temperatures in the system. Operation: Activates the pump when the collector temperature is higher than the storage tank, ensuring optimal efficiency.

Expansion Tank

Description: A safety device to accommodate fluid expansion due to temperature increases. Operation: Prevents system overpressure and ensures smooth operation.

Circulation Pump

Description: An electric pump that ensures the heat transfer fluid moves through the system. Operation: Enables fluid to flow between the collectors and the storage tank. Storage Tank

Transfer Fluid

Description: A fluid (water or a water-antifreeze mixture) that absorbs heat in the collector. Operation: Circulates through the system to transfer heat from the collectors to the storage tank.