hydraulics
Plumbing
Magen eco-Spark
®
Installation manual. © 2012, all rights reserved
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19
PIPE DIAMETER
It is important that all plumbing connected to the system uses a diameter of pipe appropriate to the size of
your solar array. Insufficient pipe diameter will unnecessarily restrict water flow to the panels. Use the
following as a guide:
Table 3: Recommended pipe diameters
Flow Rate
Recommended pipe diameter
0 - 9 m
3
/h (0 – 40 gpm)
50 mm (2’’)
9 -15 m
3
/h (40 – 66 gpm)
63 mm (2.5’’)
15 - 21 m
3
/h (66 – 92 gpm)
75 mm (3’’)
For larger flow rates you may need to incorporate alternative series-plumbing techniques.
PLUMBING RUNS
Plumbing runs should be as short as possible, especially the “Hot Return” pipe (to minimize
heat loss).
Pipes should be supported every 1.2 m (4') for horizontal pipe runs or 2.5 m (8') for vertical
pipe runs to prevent sagging and movement.
Tip:
Since 90° elbow fittings greatly restrict water flow, use as few of these as possible. In some
cases two 45° fittings can be used in place of a 90° fitting.
Tip:
When clamping pipes that run across the roof, use clamps that allow for expansion of the
pipe in hot weather. For very long pipe runs, expansion fittings may be employed. See
manufacturer for recommended size, spacing and techniques for installation.
Tip:
When clamping pipes on the side of a building use clamps with a diameter equal to the pipe
diameter, to prevent vibration and to assure a professional looking installation.
BALANCED FLOW
If you install a split system (feed), such as one of those shown in the former page, it is essential that the
piping is connected exactly as shown, to ensure equal water flow through both banks of panels. Water
follows the path of least resistance, so if one plumbing run is shorter, more water will flow through it than
through the longer one. This should also be kept in mind when designing a panel layout different to those
shown. For larger, more complicated configurations “balancing valves” may be necessary to maintain equal
water pressure in all parts of the system.
