flat-plate solar collector [2]![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Device that collects solar radiation and heats a coolant, which in turn will be used in residential settings to heat water or the home.
frame ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Collector’s insulating case that is enclosed in glass.
coolant inlet ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Cold coolant flows into the circulation tubes to absorb the solar energy trapped by the collector.
coolant outlet ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
The coolant exits the collector at high temperature (up to about 175°F) and is stored or used immediately.
glass ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Translucent covering (glass, fiberglass, polycarbonate) that allows solar radiation to pass through; the heat produced is trapped in the collector.
solar radiation ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
All the electromagnetic waves emitted by the Sun.
absorbing plate ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Black metallic sheet that harnesses heat from solar radiation and transfers it to the coolant fluid.
insulation ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Material placed on the back side of the collector to reduce heat loss.
flow tube ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Tube containing a coolant (water, air) that is used to recover and carry heat to the absorbing plate.