Apricus
Welcome to the next generation in thermal solar technology.
The Apricus AP solar collector is a highly efficient thermal solar panel, suitable for both domestic and commercial heating.
Taking advantage of the efficiency benefits provided by evacuated tubes, combined with heat pipes and glass wool insulation, the AP solar collector represents the latest in thermal solar technology.
Key Features
Design & Quality: International quality and performance certification. Comprehensive warranty.
Evacuated Tube and Heat Pipe: Evacuated tubes provide excellent thermal insulation. Round tube shape provides stable heat output. Copper heat pipes provide rapid heat transfer. Plug in your heat pipe system for fast, trouble-free installation.
Copper Header: Silver brazed copper header suitable for potable water. Maximum pressure rating of 8bar/116psi. Contoured header design creates turbulent water flow for optimal heat transfer. Minimal pressure drop. Available in rear or end port models.
Manifold: Attractive and durable powder coated aluminium casing. Available in dark brown, black or silver. Thick glass wool insulates against heat loss. Environmentally friendly glass wool made from recycled sources.
Mounting Frame: Stainless steel frame components for strength and corrosion resistance. Mounting frames to suit pitched or flat roofs.
Environmentally Friendly Packing: Shipping pallets, packing boxes and evacuated tube box inserts are all made from 100% recycled paper.
How it Works
Solar Heat Absorption: The absorber of the Apricus evacuated tube is the black coating on the inner tube. This special selective coating is excellent at absorbing solar energy (92%) while only reflecting a small amount (8%). The sunlight passes through the clear outer tube, and is absorbed by the inner tube, raising the temperature inside. A vacuum between the two glass tubes greatly reduces any heat losses, improving performance in cold weather.
Solar Heat Transfer: Heat is transferred to the heat pipe, assisted by a metal heat transfer fin. The heat is then rapidly conducted to the condenser (tip) of the heat pipe in the form of steam, which is formed as the water within the heat pipe boils.
Solar Heat Storage: The heat pipe condensor is plugged into a header, through which water is circulated. As water flows through the header pipe it absorbs heat, which is returned into the storage tank. By repeating this process over and over, the water in the tank is gradually heated, thus reducing the amount of gas or electricity that is needed to heat the water.