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Revision Date: 02/07/2020
Revision: C
Pre-Assembled Rhino - Installation Manual
Getting Around Obstacles
There are several options when you need to install around an obstacle such as Skylights and Flues, the method
depends on the dimensional size of the obstruction and its location.
If the obstacle is greater than 80mm the traditional method is to arrange the panels either side of the obstacle
and then bridge the obstacle gap between the two (2) joined panels on either side of the obstacle using
PVC
Pipe Spacers.
An alternative method is to either fully remove and plug any interfering collector strips from the
headers or to cut the collector strip around the obstacle and then plug the Headers wherever the collector
tubes have been cut and removed. The decision to use either method is up to the installer and the size and
location of the obstacle, however Rhino Manifold Plugs can be a more convenient, faster, and aesthetically
appealing option for smaller obstructions.
PVC Pipe Extensions
When you need to install panels either side of an obstruction greater than the normal 80mm gap between two
joined panels, the traditional PVC pressure pipe, Pipe Spacer method to circumnavigate the obstacle is
generally used:
Step 1:
Measure the length of the obstruction and cut two pieces of 40mm PVC pressure pipe long
enough to circumvent the obstacle. You may need to take an additional 40mm into consideration
to account for the 2 x CPVC Pipe Couplings or a further 100mm to account for any rubber flexible
coupling/s where required.
Step 2:
Once you have deburred the PVC pipe(s), prime and cement two (2) CPVC Pipe Couplings to
either end. Ensure that you use a good quality, multi-purpose cement.
Step 3:
Connect the PVC Pipe Spacer assembly to each Header Pipe to bridge the gap, using two (2) Ring
Clamp Assemblies per PVC Pipe Spacer, see Appendix 6 for instruction on installing the Ring
Clamp Assembly.
Step 4:
To prevent the PVC pipe from sagging, you may consider installing 50mm (2 inch) pipe clamps or
additional Roof Mounts along the top PVC pipe at regular intervals. For the bottom PVC pipe, you
will need to allow for thermal expansion/contraction of the Solar Panels can be installed. This
may not be necessary if the distance is less than 600mm (24 inches).
Appendix 2: Plumbing Considerations, Getting Around Obstacles
and Automatic Drain Down