Evacuated Heat Pipe Solar Collector

The Heat Pipe Solar Collector represents the next level of solar thermal technology for industrial, commercial, and residential applications. Designed with engineering precision, it combines vacuum insulation and sealed heat pipe technology to deliver reliable and efficient heating, even in the harshest climates.

Unlike conventional solar collectors, which rely on direct water circulation and are prone to freezing, scaling, and leakage, the heat pipe system isolates the working fluid from the water. This means no freezing, no contamination, and no system shutdowns—a crucial factor for industries and homes that need dependable solar heating year-round.

How It Works

At the heart of this collector lies a sealed copper heat pipe, pre-filled with a small amount of low-boiling-point working fluid (commonly methanol or ammonia). The heat pipe is placed inside a double-layer vacuum glass tube, which acts as both insulation and protection.

Here’s the process step by step:

1. Solar Absorption – Sunlight strikes the absorber plate and aluminum fins inside the vacuum tube, quickly heating the heat pipe’s evaporator section.

2. Phase Change – The working fluid inside vaporizes rapidly and rises to the top condenser section of the pipe.

3. Heat Transfer – At the condenser end, the vapor releases heat as it condenses, transferring energy into the manifold block or heat exchanger connected to the water tank.

4. Return Cycle – The cooled liquid flows back to the evaporator section by gravity, and the process repeats, forming a continuous, highly efficient thermal cycle.

Because the water never enters the vacuum tube, the system avoids corrosion, scaling, and leakage risks while maintaining fast thermal response—often producing usable hot water within minutes of sunlight exposure.

Technical Advantages

Superior Freeze Protection – Traditional collectors often crack in sub-zero temperatures because water inside the tubes freezes and expands. In this design, the working fluid operates in a closed circuit, and the vacuum insulation ensures it stays safe in even extreme winter conditions.

Automatic Overheat Prevention – When the water tank reaches maximum temperature or the tubes are dry-exposed, the heat pipes naturally reduce heat transfer, preventing overheating and extending system lifespan.

Ultra-Fast Heat Transfer – Heat pipes have a thermal conductivity hundreds of times higher than solid copper. This means the collector can start producing hot water after just a few minutes of sunlight.

Low Maintenance & Longevity – Even if a single vacuum tube is damaged, the rest of the system keeps working. Tubes can be replaced individually without draining or shutting down the system.

Pressurized Operation – The system supports pressurized water circulation, making it compatible with modern plumbing and high-demand applications.

Where It’s Used

The Heat Pipe Solar Collector is versatile and adaptable across a wide range of scenarios:

Residential Solar Water Heating – Especially effective in high-altitude or cold-climate homes, providing reliable hot water year-round.

Industrial Pre-Heating – Delivers pre-heated water for factories, reducing fossil fuel consumption and operating costs.

Agriculture & Aquaculture – Keeps greenhouses warm and supplies hot water for livestock or fish farms.

Swimming Facilities – Maintains comfortable water temperatures for pools, spas, and wellness centers.

Commercial Buildings – Supports centralized hot water systems in hotels, apartments, and schools.

Our Manufacturing Edge

1. High-Grade Aluminum Fins (3003 Alloy): Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and highly conductive for rapid heat absorption.

2. Copper Heat Channels: Premium copper ensures maximum thermal transfer with excellent anti-corrosion properties.

3. Phosphor-Copper Welding: Provides durable, crack-resistant joints that withstand long-term stress.

4. Customizable Design: As a factory-direct manufacturer, we offer OEM/ODM services tailored to project specifications.

Why Choose This Collector?

This is more than just a solar collector—it’s an engineering solution for sustainable heating. Whether you’re an architect designing eco-friendly buildings, an industrial facility manager seeking to cut energy bills, or a homeowner in a cold region tired of frozen systems, the Heat Pipe Solar Collector is built for performance, safety, and long-term reliability.

Contact us today for project specifications, technical drawings, or OEM inquiries.  

Product Parameter:

Q1: What is a heat pipe solar collector?
A1: A heat pipe solar collector uses evacuated glass tubes with sealed copper pipes to efficiently transfer solar heat to a circulating fluid. It's known for its fast start-up, high efficiency, and excellent performance in cold climates.

Q2: How does a heat pipe work in solar collectors?
A2: The heat pipe inside the evacuated tube contains a small amount of fluid. When heated by sunlight, the fluid vaporizes and rises to the condenser end, transferring heat to the water system. The vapor then condenses and returns to the bottom, repeating the cycle.

Q3: What are the advantages of heat pipe collectors over flat plate collectors?
A3: Heat pipe collectors offer better performance in low sunlight or cold environments, faster response time, and less heat loss due to vacuum insulation. They're ideal for areas with cold winters or industrial hot water needs.

Q4: Can heat pipe collectors be used year-round?
A4: Yes. Their design with vacuum insulation and antifreeze compatibility makes them suitable for year-round operation, even in sub-zero temperatures.

Q5: What maintenance is required for heat pipe solar collectors?
A5: Maintenance is minimal. Regularly checking for leaks, cleaning the glass tubes, and inspecting the heat exchanger once a year is typically sufficient.