Apricus Installation Manual
22
Plastic Pipe (PEX) or Galvanised Pipe should
‘NEVER’ be used in any part of the Solar
Loop within a Solar Thermal Collector
System.
Pipe Size
When selecting the size of the pipe for the
solar loop there are two main issues to be
taken into account: flow rate and pressure
drop
These two factors are closely related; a
higher pressure drop will reduce the flow
rate.
Pressure drop is increased with a smaller
diameter pipe, as well as the presence of
bends, elbows and other components that
will restrict the flow of the water such as
corrugated stainless steel piping.
A relatively direct, unobstructed flow path is
highly desirable.
If there is the possibility that additional
collectors will be added to the system in the
future then it is recommended that a lager
pipe diameter is used to accommodate the
future system expansion / upgrade.
Number of
Tubes
Pipe Size
Cu / SS
10-40
15mm / DN16
50-90
22mm / DN20
90-240
25mm / DN25
Guidelines showing pipe sizing for typical domestic
installations
Securing Pipes
Pipes must be secured in place with suitable
brackets, straps, etc. according to plumbing
code requirements for material and pipe
diameter and to prevent vibration and
placing stress on system components.
Internal Piping
Extra care must be taken to avoid any piping
leaks inside the building. Avoid joints in
attic or overhead spaces that could cause
significant property damage if they were to
leak. The CoolSky Standard Systems have
been designed to minimize the number of
hydraulic connections and we recommend
the use of Flat Face gasket seals for the
hydraulic connections where possible.
External Piping
Long external pipe runs should be avoided
where possible. Pre-insulated pipes should
have a sheath to protect the insulation from
UV degradation.
Stagnation & Overheating
What is Stagnation?
Stagnation refers to the condition that
occurs whenever the pump stops running.
This could be due to pump failure, power
outage or most commonly, as the result of a
max tank temperature protection feature
setting on the controller.