European Plastics News reported that Soterna has developed a solar panel system with an integrated thermal boiler for quick installation and lower cost. The thermal boiler is made of Radel polyphenylsulfone resin from Solvay Specialty Polymers, which provides long term hoop stress resistance along with resistance to prolonged exposure to hot chlorinated water.

Solvay said that Soterna's decision to go with PPSU instead of the traditional stainless steel represents the first use of a thermoplastic for thermal boilers in a pressurized solar panel system.

The 80 kilogram thermal complete system, measuring 2,029mm by 1,020mm by 240mm, withstands 600 kPa of pressure and 95°C chlorinated water.

It consists of two extruded profiles with injection moulded end caps which are welded onto the profiles. The profiles are connected to each other and hold a total of 150 liters of water.

The integrated thermal system reduces installation time by 50% and cuts cost due to the elimination of piping from the boiler to the panel. Several Soterna solar thermal systems have been installed and are undergoing testing in Europe.

Source - European Plastics News

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