Evacuated Tubes Collectors (ETC)
Evacuated Tube Collectors (ETCs) are a type of solar thermal collector that uses evacuated glass tubes to absorb solar radiation and heat a fluid.
Characteristics
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Evacuated Glass Tubes:
Vacuum-insulated tubes minimize heat loss
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Absorber Coating:
Selective coating on the inner tube absorbs solar radiation
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Heat Pipe:
A sealed pipe transfers heat to the fluid
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Fluid Passage:
Fluid flows through a manifold, collecting heat
Advantages
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Higher Efficiency:
50-70% efficient, surpassing flat plate collectors
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Temperature Range:
Can achieve temperatures up to 200°C
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Durability:
Long lifespan (20-30 years).
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Flexibility:
Suitable for various applications
Applications
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Water Heating:
Domestic, industrial and commercial
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Space Heating:
Buildings, greenhouses and agricultural drying
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Cooling:
Solar-powered absorption chillers
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Industrial Processes:
Food processing, textile and chemical industries.