Synthetic-rubber extrusions form low cost roll-on solar collector

Journal Article · Fri Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1979 · Pop. Sci.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5695924

Smay, V E

Synthetic rubber extrusions composed of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) have been developed in 4.4-inch-wide mats as solar absorbers that are light weight and simple to install. The mats, which come in rolls up to 600 ft long, have 6 small tubes alternating with thin webbing. EPDM has a lifespan of 30-50 yrs and maintains its flexibility within a temperature range of -80 to 375/sup 0/F. The mats are laid over rigid insulation and covered with glazing, detailed assembly instructions are provided. EPDM is not subject to corrosion and is not damaged by freezing water, a second EPDM extrusion is used for glazed solar collectors. The efficiency of the design is attributed to the greater surface-to-mass ratio, permitting more heat collection, and the smaller mass of the synthetic rubber, which allows faster heat-up. The total cost for a complete, installed solar heating system of this type, including pumps, tanks, and plumbing, is about $12/ft/sup 2/.

• OSTI ID: 5695924
• Journal Information: Pop. Sci.; (United States), Journal Name: Pop. Sci.; (United States) Vol. 214:6; ISSN POSCD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140901 -- Solar Thermal Utilization-- Space Heating & Cooling
141000* -- Solar Collectors & Concentrators
CORROSION RESISTANCE
COST
EFFICIENCY
EQUIPMENT
FABRICATION
FLAT PLATE COLLECTORS
GLAZING MATERIALS
INSTALLATION
MATERIALS
PERFORMANCE
SOLAR ABSORBERS
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
TEMPERATURE EFFECTS
THERMAL EFFICIENCY
THERMAL INSULATION