In order to receive optimum results, POLY PRO
collectors should operate at or near nominal flow
rates. Recommended nominal and minimum flow
rates for the different collector sizes and maximum
number of collectors per row are:
For example: nominal flow through a row of nine
collectors, size 4x10 ft. is 9x4 GPM = 36 GPM.
Compare your nominal flow with the flow rate of the
pump. Consult the performance curves from the pump
manufacturer if you are not sure. If the flow rate is
excessive (more than 10 GPM per collector), or if the
system pressure is greater than 30 PSI, a bypass line
should be installed between the collector supply and
return lines above the three-way value.
If the flow rate is below the minimum as shown in the
table above, then the size of the filtration pump or
pipe size should be increased, or a booster pump
installed in some cases.
Select appropriate pipe size for the system supply and
return lines. The headers of the POLY PRO collectors
are 2”, and the pipe adapters, included in the kits,
connect to 2” PVC Schedule 40 pipe.
To avoid excessive pressure loses the following
minimum pipe sizes for the supply and return lines are
recommended.
Where the recommended size is not available or
where the length of the lines exceeds 100 feet, use the
next larger size.
Step 2: Decide on System Layout and Placement of
Collectors
The basic consideration for the system lay-out is to
ensure uniform flow across each collector, equal flow
through every collector in the system and that the
system drains automatically when not in the
operation. This is accomplished with connecting the
supply line to the bottom (or inlet) header, and the
return line at the opposite diagonal flow. The outlet
headers must be pitched in a vertical distance of at
least 8” (20cm) above the inlet headers to assure
proper drainage and performance (4* angle from
horizontal).
