Product Definition

Direct Insert Type Solar Collector is a solar thermal collection system in which the heat transfer medium flows directly through inserted absorber tubes, enabling efficient heat exchange, reduced thermal resistance, and simplified system architecture for residential, commercial, and industrial hot water or heating applications.

Technical Parameters and Specifications

• Collector type: Direct insert tube solar thermal collector

• Absorber material: Copper / Aluminum alloy

• Tube diameter: 8 mm – 14 mm

• Tube wall thickness: 0.6 mm – 1.2 mm

• Absorber coating: Selective coating (α ≥ 0.93, ε ≤ 0.08)

• Working pressure: ≤0.6 MPa

• Operating temperature range: -20°C to 95°C

• Instantaneous efficiency: 55% – 70%

• Heat loss coefficient: ≤4.5 W/(m²·K)

• Collector area: 1.5 m² – 3.0 m² per unit

• Design service life: ≥15 years

Structure and Material Composition

• Transparent Cover: Low-iron tempered glass with high transmittance

• Absorber Plate: Metal plate bonded to inserted fluid tubes

• Direct Insert Tubes: Heat transfer fluid flows directly through absorber

• Insulation Layer: Mineral wool or polyurethane foam

• Back Panel: Galvanized steel or aluminum sheet

• Frame: Anodized aluminum alloy for structural support

Manufacturing Process

1. Material Preparation: Selection of absorber metals and glass

2. Tube Forming: Precision drawing and bending of metal tubes

3. Direct Insertion Assembly: Tubes inserted into absorber channels

4. Brazing or Welding: Ensuring thermal and mechanical bonding

5. Selective Coating Application: Vacuum sputtering or electroplating

6. Insulation Installation: Back and side thermal insulation

7. Frame Assembly: Structural reinforcement and sealing

8. Performance Testing: Pressure, efficiency, and leakage tests

Industry Comparison

Application Scenarios

• Residential solar hot water systems

• Apartment and dormitory centralized heating

• Hotels and commercial buildings

• Industrial process preheating

• EPC renewable energy projects

Core Pain Points and Solutions

• Low heat transfer efficiency: Direct insert design minimizes thermal resistance

• Complex system integration: Simplified fluid path reduces control components

• Maintenance difficulty: Fewer moving parts improve reliability

• Initial cost sensitivity: Modular design allows scalable investment

Risk Warnings and Mitigation Measures

• Risk of freezing in cold climates; apply antifreeze solutions

• Overpressure during stagnation; install safety valves

• Improper installation angle; follow recommended tilt design

• Coating degradation; verify certified selective coating processes

Procurement and Selection Guide

1. Define hot water demand and load profile

2. Select collector size and quantity

3. Confirm operating pressure and temperature limits

4. Evaluate absorber material and coating quality

5. Check compliance with local solar standards

6. Assess manufacturer testing and quality documentation

7. Review installation and maintenance support capabilities

Engineering Case Study

In a commercial dormitory project serving over 300 occupants, a direct insert type solar collector system with a total aperture area of 180 m² was installed. The system achieved an annual solar fraction exceeding 65%, significantly reducing conventional energy consumption and operating costs while maintaining stable hot water supply.

FAQ

1. What distinguishes direct insert type collectors? — Fluid flows directly through absorber tubes.

2. Are they suitable for cold climates? — Yes, with antifreeze protection.

3. What efficiency can be expected? — Typically 55–70% instantaneous efficiency.

4. Is maintenance complex? — No, the system structure is simplified.

5. What fluids can be used? — Water or glycol-based heat transfer fluids.

6. How long is the service life? — Generally over 15 years.

7. Are they compatible with storage tanks? — Yes, standard tanks apply.

8. What installation angle is recommended? — Usually latitude ±10°.

9. Do they require tracking systems? — No, fixed installation is sufficient.

10. Can they be integrated with boilers? — Yes, as a hybrid heating solution.

Call to Action

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E-E-A-T Author Credentials

This article is authored by solar thermal engineers and renewable energy consultants with over a decade of experience in solar collector design, EPC implementation, and international project procurement, supporting global B2B clients and infrastructure developers.