Method of making static solar heat collectors
A load-bearing building panel capable of forming an external wall cladding or roof component has a solar heat collecting capacity in the form of channels for heat exchange fluid incorporated in the fabric of the panel. The panel is made of a structural plastics material, such as G.R.P. laminate, successive layers being moulded to simulate tiles. On the back or underside, longitudinal reinforcing beams are built in during laying up of the panel. Between the beams cores or formers defining a matrix or channels are encapsulated in layers of the G.R.P. Wax cores are melted or dissolved out after curing of the panel; metal formers remain embedded in the fabric of the panel. The matrix is connected by flow and return pipes to a heat exchange system within the building. Panels intended for roofing have ridge flanges and wall plates moulded into the substrate at the appropriate pitch angle, and a split capping tube embraces the ridge flanges. A pitched roof formed by oppositely sloping panels is self-supporting. An integral box girder can also be formed across the underside of the panel at the eaves to rest on the top of the external wall to be loaded with concrete in situ so as to anchor the roof on the walls.
- Assignee:
- Crescent Roofing Co. Ltd.
- Patent Number(s):
- US 4405396
- OSTI ID:
- 5459250
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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