MINI-EEST Thermal Solar Energy Basic Unit

This unit is a system that transforms solar energy into usable thermal energy.

This unit uses the thermosiphon system to heat water or the traditional pumping system. In both cases, the absorbed thermal energy is given by the simulated solar radiation, in our case, it is done using panel with powerful luminous sources.

The unit basically is formed by:

• Thermal solar panel.
• Tank.
• Solar simulator.
• Lamps.
• Pumping system.
• Temperature sensors.
• Flowmeter.
• Valves set to work in thermosiphon mode or pumping mode.

The solar panel is made of polycarbonate. It is mounted on a metallic structure with a conduct for the thermal fluid. It has been developed taking into account the geometrical shape of the absorbing surface in order to obtain the highest output levels possible.

The tank satisfies the established technical standards, both in its construction and in its equipment. The hot water outlet is through an overflow placed at the top of the tank.

The lamps present radiation features that are similar to those of the sun.

This unit makes it possible to simulate two different functioning modes: the thermosiphon mode, the water runs due to the temperature differences, that is to say, without pump, and the pumping mode.

Five temperature sensors allow to know the temperature at different points of the unit.

A flowmeter allows to know the water flow that is running through the pump and, therefore, through the collector.

The unit has every pipe and connection for an optimal operation.