Solar pond. Final report
The purpose of this project was to design, construct, operate, and test a prototype solar collector, thermal storage, and heat exchange system. This system was named a Solar Pond due to its configuration, but should not be confused with the salt brine pond system of the same name. This prototype system consists of a closable reflector top, horizontal plate collector integral with a 3000 gallon water storage pit; and simple pumps, piping, heat exchangers, and automatic controls necessary for operation. The application was to provide heat for an existing 3000 sq ft greenhouse presently being heated with natural gas as fuel. It was desired to design a system; technologically simple, low in cost, one that could be scaled up to a specific need, and one that could be constructed with locally purchased materials by non-skilled or semi-skilled workers. The total project cost was $2361.00, including design fees, transportation, etc. It is estimated that when scaled up, the cost per Btu could be significally reduced. The projected annual net heat production (over the 6 month heating season) is approximately 28 million Btu's. At current gas rates, this will result in an approximate annual savings of $157.93. Were the fuel source butane, propane, fuel oil, or electricity, the savings would be several times greater.
- Research Organization:
- Kreul (Bernard H.), Nashville, AR (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- FG46-80R612000
- OSTI ID:
- 5567555
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/R6/12000-T1; ON: DE84003537
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
140901* -- Solar Thermal Utilization-- Space Heating & Cooling
BUILDINGS
CONSTRUCTION
DESIGN
ENERGY STORAGE
ENERGY SYSTEMS
EQUIPMENT
FLAT PLATE COLLECTORS
GREENHOUSES
HEAT EXCHANGERS
HEAT STORAGE
HEATING
HEATING SYSTEMS
HYDROGEN COMPOUNDS
OXYGEN COMPOUNDS
PUMPS
SENSIBLE HEAT STORAGE
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SOLAR HEATING
SOLAR HEATING SYSTEMS
SOLAR SPACE HEATING
SPACE HEATING
STORAGE
THERMAL ENERGY STORAGE EQUIPMENT
WATER