C
HAPTER
2:
S
YSTEM
P
IPING
Flow Rate
•
In order to receive optimum performance from Aquatherm Industries collectors, the following recommended
flow rates and number of collectors per row should be followed. When the system is running, all the collectors
should feel uniformly cool to the touch, and there should be no residual air left in the pool return lines. If either
of these two conditions persist, chances are that the flow rates thru the collectors are inadequate or the system is
not properly balanced. A flow meter can be installed in the collector feed line to check on the flow rate. If the flow
rates are within the limits as shown below in
Table 3C
, then the system may not be properly balanced, especially
with systems requiring multiple banks of collectors.
•
If the flow rate is below the minimum as shown in the table above, then the pool pump size or pipe size should be
increased, or a booster pump installed in some cases. If the flow rate is excessive (more than 10 GPM/(37.9l )
collector), or if the system pressure is greater than 30 psi, a by-pass Check Valve should be installed between the
collector feed and return lines above the 3-way valve to prevent problems with the collectors and connection
hoses.
•
If there is residual air in the pool return lines and the collectors do feel cool to the touch, refer to the section
concerning the
Vacuum Relief Valve Test
on
Page 23
.
16
T
ABLE
3C
COLLECTOR SIZE, FEET:
4 X 12
4 X 10
4 X 8
STANDARD FLOW RATE PER COLLECTOR, GPM (LTR/MIN)
MINIMUM FLOW RATE PER COLLECTOR, GPM (LTR/MIN)
MAXIMUM # COLLECTORS PER ROW, 1 1/2”; 2”
MAXIMUM SQUARE FOOTAGE PER ARRAY, 1 1/2”; 2”
PRESSURE DROP, PSI@GPM: 1 1/2”;
2”
5.0 (18.9)
4.0 (15.1)
3.25 (12.5)
3.0 (11.4)
2.5 (9.5)
2.5 (9.5)
10; 12
12; 12
12; 14
480; 576
480; 576
480; 576
0.05 @2.5
