VITOSOL

System Design Guidelines

Vitosol 200-F Vitosol 300-T

Model SP3

Viessmann solar collectors – Vitosol 200-F

the right solution for every application Flat plate solar collector for installation on pitched
and flat roofs, and for freestanding installation

Using solar energy to heat domestic hot water and to

provide a backup for space heating Vitosol 300-T
Vacuum tube solar collector, based on the heat pipe
principle, for installation on sloped and flat roofs and for
freestanding installation

5167 156 v3.1 05/2008

Safety, Installation and Warranty Requirements
Safety, Installation and Warranty Requirements
Please ensure that these instructions are read and understood before commencing installation. Failure to comply with the
instructions listed below and details printed in this manual can cause product/property damage, severe personal injury, and/or
loss of life. Ensure all requirements below are understood and fulfilled (including detailed information found in manual
subsections).
H Licensed professional heating
contractor
The installation, adjustment, service,
and maintenance of this equipment
must be performed by a licensed
professional heating contractor.
" Please see section
entitled “Important
Regulatory and
Installation
Requirements”.
H Product documentation
Read all applicable documentation
before commencing installation. Store
documentation near boiler in a readily
accessible location for reference in
the future by service personnel.
" For a listing of
applicable literature,
please see section
entitled “Important
Regulatory and Safety
Requirements”.
H Advice to owner
Once the installation work is
complete, the heating contractor must
familiarize the system
operator/ultimate owner with all
equipment, as well as safety
precautions/requirements, shut-down
procedure, and the need for
professional service annually.
H Warranty
Information contained in
this and related product
documentation must be
read and followed. Failure
to do so renders warranty
null and void.
2
H Grounding/lightning protection of the
solar system CAUTION
In the lower part of the building, Avoid scratching or sudden shocks to
install an electrical conductor on the glass cover of the solar panel.
solar circuit’s piping system in
compliance with local regulations.
Connection of the solar system to a
new or existing lightning protection or CAUTION
the provision of local grounding should Never step on collectors or solder in
only be carried out by a licensed close proximity to the glass surface
professional, who must take into of the solar panel.
account the prevailing conditions on
site.
H Applicability
Vitosol solar collectors are designed
for use in closed loop heating systems
CAUTION for domestic hot water heating, space
Observe maximum load and distance heating and pool heating via a heat
from edge before installing the exchanger. The use of Viessmann
substructure to the roof. If necessary, heat transfer medium “Tyfocor-HTL”
consult with a structural engineer to is strongly recommended.
determine if the structure is suitable
for installing solar collectors. The
collectors must be securely mounted IMPORTANT
so that the mountings can withstand
intense wind conditions and local Pool water or potable water cannot be
snow loads. pumped directly through the Vitosol
collectors. Damage to collectors caused
by corrosion, freezing or scaling will
void warranty.
CAUTION
Gloves and eye protection must be
worn when handling solar panels.
CAUTION
Solar panel connection pipes and
solar heating fluid can become hot
enough to cause severe burns.
Extreme caution must be taken if
panels have been in a stagnant
condition (no flow of fluid).
5167 156 v3.1
 Contents

Contents Page

Safety Safety Instructions

General Information
Basic Principles of Solar Technology
Important Regulatory and Installation Requirements
About these Instructions
Product Information
Important Regulatory and Installation Requirements
Subsidies, Permits and Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Solar Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
HExploiting solar energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
H Solar radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
H Global radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
H Exploiting solar energy with collectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
H Influence of alignment, inclination and shade on energy yield . . . . . . . . . 10
H Inclination and orientation of collectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
H Angle of inclination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Overall System Optimisation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Specification Construction and Function of Collectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

H Vitosol 200-F – flat panel collector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
H Vitosol 300-T – vacuum tube collector based on the heat pipe principle 14
Collector Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Solar coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Collector Installation and Mounting Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
H Installation options for different collector types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
H Vitosol 200-F flat panel collector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
H Support weight requirements - Vitosol 300-T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
General Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Notes on Planning and Operation Calculating the Required Absorber Surface Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
H Calculating the absorber surface area and DHW cylinder capacity . . . . . 27
H Calculating the absorber surface area for space heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Sizing Pipe Diameters and Circulation Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

H Sizing pipe diameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
H Installation examples for Vitosol 200-F, models SV2 and SH2 . . . . . . . . 35
H Collector pressure drop information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
H Sizing pipe circulation pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
H Technical information on the Solar-Divicon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Safety Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
H Liquid capacity of solar heating system components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
H Diaphragm expansion vessel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
H Technical data for the expansion tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
H Pressure relief valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
H High limit safety cut-out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
H Thermostatic mixing valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
5167 156 v3.1

3
Contents

Contents (continued) Page

System Designs General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

H How to implement the installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
System Design 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
H Dual-mode DHW heating with Vitocell-B 100 or Vitocell-B 300
DHW tanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
System Design 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
H Dual-mode DHW heating and space heating backup
with heating water storage tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
System Design 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
H Dual-mode DHW heating with two DHW tanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
System Design 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
H Dual-mode DHW and swimming pool water heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
System Design Extensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
H System with bypass circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
H Bypass circuit with solar cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
H System with energy-saving mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Appendix Calculation Example Based on the Viessmann ”ESOP” Program . . . . . . . . 58

H Solar heating systm with dual-coil DHW tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

5167 156 v3.1

4
 Safety
Important Regulatory and Installation Requirements
Codes
The installation of solar heating
systems might be governed by
individual local rules and regulations for
this type of product, which must be
observed. The installation of this unit
shall be in accordance with local codes.
Always use latest editions of codes.
Mechanical room
Ensure the mechanical room complies
with the requirements of the system
design guideline and/or technical data
manual.
The solar storage tank must be installed
in a mechanical room which is never
subject to freezing temperatures.
If not in use and danger of freezing
exists in the mechanical room, ensure
water in tank is drained.
Working on the equipment
The installation, adjustment, service,
and maintenance of this equipment
must be done by a licensed professional
heating contractor who is qualified and
experienced in the installation, service,
and maintenance of solar heating
systems. There are no user serviceable
parts on this equipment.
Ensure main power supply to
equipment, the heating system, and all
external controls has been deactivated.
Take precautions in both instances to
avoid accidental activation of power
during service work.
Technical literature
Literature applicable to all aspects of
the Vitosol:
- Technical Data Manual
- Installation Instructions
- Start-up/Service Instructions
- Operating Instructions
and User’s Information Manual
- System Design Guidelines
5167 156 v3.1
Please carefully read this manual prior
to attempting installation. Any
warranty is null and void if these
instructions are not followed.
This product must be installed
observing not only the necessary
product literature (see list), but also
all local, provincial/state plumbing and
building codes, as they apply to this
product and all periphery equipment.
For information regarding other
Viessmann System Technology
componentry, please reference
documentation of the respective
product.
We offer frequent installation and
service seminars to familiarize our
partners with our products. Please
inquire.
The completeness and functionality of
field supplied electrical controls and
components must be verified by the
heating contractor. These include
pumps, valves, air vents, thermostats,
temperature and pressure relief
controls, etc.
Leave all literature at the installation
site and advise the system
operator/ultimate owner where the
literature can be found. Contact
Viessmann for additional copies.
5
General Information

About these Instructions

Take note of all symbols and notations intended to draw attention to potential hazards or important product
information. These include ”WARNING”, ”CAUTION”, and ”IMPORTANT”. See below.

Warnings draw your attention to the

WARNING presence of potential hazards or
Indicates an imminently hazardous important product information.
situation which, if not avoided, could
result in substantial product/property
damage, serious injury or loss of life.

Cautions draw your attention to the

CAUTION presence of potential hazards or
Indicates an imminently hazardous important product information.
situation which, if not avoided, may
result in minor injury or
product/property damage.

Helpful hints for installation, operation

IMPORTANT or maintenance which pertain to the
product.

This symbol indicates that additional,

pertinent information is to be found in
the adjacent column.

This symbol indicates that other

instructions must be referenced.

Product Information

Vitosol 200-F, Models SV2, SH2

Flat panel solar collector with 25 ft.2 /
2.3 m2 collector area.

Max. stagnation temperature 430°F /

221°C
Max. operating pressure 87 psig /
6 bar

Vitosol 300-T, SP3 Series

Vacuum tube solar collector with 22
and 32 ft.2 / 2 and 3 m2 collector area.

Max. stagnation temperature 302°F /

150°C
Max. operating pressure 87 psig /
6 bar
5167 156 v3.1

6
 Basic Principles of Solar Technology
Subsidies, Permits and Insurance
Solar heating systems for DHW or
swimming pool heating are subsidised
by many regional and local authorities.
Request information about subsidies
from your local authority.
Further information is available from our
sales offices.
Solar Energy
Exploiting solar energy
The sun has provided the earth with
light and heat for billions of years.
Without it, our existence on earth
would be impossible.
We have been using the sun’s heat
since time immemorial. In summer, it
heats our buildings directly, while in
winter we make use of solar energy
stored in the form of wood, coal, oil and
gas, to provide heat for our buildings
and domestic hot water.
To protect fuel reserves, the heating
industry has committed itself to finding
more responsible ways of handling
these precious resources, which have
accumulated naturally over millions of
years.
One rational way of achieving this aim is
to make direct use of solar energy by
means of collectors.
5167 156 v3.1
Your local planning office will be able to
advise you about whether solar heating
systems need planning permission.
Viessmann solar collectors are tested
for impact resistance, incl. hail impact,
in accordance with DIN EN 12975-2.
Nevertheless, we would recommend
you include the collectors in your
building insurance, to protect you from
losses arising from any extraordinary
natural phenomenon. Our warranty
excludes such losses.
Thanks to the use of highly
sophisticated collectors and a perfectly
matched overall system, the economic
use of solar energy is no longer a
futuristic vision, but a proven everyday
reality.
Considering that fuel prices will
continue to rise in the years ahead,
investing in a solar heating system can
be viewed as a ”genuine” investment in
the future.
7
 Basic Principles of Solar Technology

Solar Energy (continued)

Solar radiation

Solar radiation represents a flow of

energy irradiated uniformly in all
directions by the sun. Of that energy,
an output of 429 Btu/h/ft.2 or
1.36 kW/m2, the so-called solar
S constant, hits the outer earth’s
atmosphere.

RT

Diffused celestial radiation Heat radiation of the absorber

Direct solar radiation Heat radiation of the glass cover
Wind, rain, snow, convection Useful collector output
Convection losses Reflection
Conduction losses RT Return
S Supply

Global radiation

6000
direct
After penetrating the earth’s
radiation atmosphere, the solar radiation is
5000 reduced by reflection, dispersion and
Solar irradiation in Wh/(m2 x d)

diffused
radiation absorption by dust particles and
4000 gaseous molecules. That portion of this
radiation which passes unimpeded
3000
through the atmosphere to strike the
earth’s surface is known as direct
2000
radiation.
1000
The portion of the solar radiation which
0 is reflected and/or absorbed by dust
Jan. Feb. March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. particles and gas molecules and
irradiated back strikes the earth’s
surface indirectly is known as diffused
radiation.

The total radiation striking the earth’s

surface is the global radiation Eg, i.e.,
global radiation = direct radiation +
diffused radiation.
In the latitudes of North America, the
typical global radiation under optimum
conditions (clear, cloudless sky at mid-
day) amounts to a max. of 317
5167 156 v3.1

Btu/h/ft.2 or 1 000 W/m2.

With solar collectors, as much as 75 %
of this global radiation can be utilised,
depending on the type of collector.

8
 Basic Principles of Solar Technology

Solar Energy (continued)

Exploiting solar energy using solar collectors

The useful energy which a collector can
absorb depends on several factors.
The main factor is the total solar energy
available.
Annual global radiation in Canada
The amount of global energy varies
from location to location (see maps
below).
The type of collector, as well as its
inclination and orientation, are also very
important (see page 10). If the solar
installation is to be operated
economically, careful dimensioning of
the system components is also
essential.

Btu/ft2/day
2.5 - 3 kwh/m2/day 787-945
3 - 3.3 kwh/m2/day 945-1040
3.3 - 3.6 kwh/m2/day 1040-1134
3.6 - 3.9 kwh/m2/day 1134-1228
3.9 - 4.2 kwh/m2/day 1228-1323
4.2 - 4.4 kwh/m2/day 1323-1386
4.4 - 4.7 kwh/m2/day 1386-1481
> 4.7 kwh/m2/day >1481

Annual global radiation in the United States

Btu/ft2/day
3 - 4 kwh/m2/day 945-1260

4 - 5 kwh/m2/day 1260-1575

5 - 6 kwh/m2/day 1575-1890

6 - 7 kwh/m2/day 1890-2205
5167 156 v3.1

Note: Average mean daily global radiation on a south-facing surface tilted at an angle equal to the latitude of the location.

9
Basic Principles of Solar Technology

Solar Energy (continued)

Influence of alignment, inclination and shade on energy yield

Optimum alignment and inclination

North Annual The solar generator provides the highest
irradiation
in % annual solar yield for a DHW system
when facing south with an inclination of
approx. 30 to 35 degrees
to the horizontal plane. However, the
installation of a solar heating system is
still viable even when the installation
deviates quite significantly from the
above (south-westerly to south-easterly
alignment, 25 to 55 degrees
West East
inclination).

The graph illustrates the loss of yield

resulting from an installation of the
collector array which is less than
perfect. The graph also indicates that a
shallower inclination is more favourable,
if the collector surface cannot be
pointed south. A solar heating system
Angle of with a 30º inclination and an alignment
South inclination of 45º south-westerly still achieves
95% of its optimum yield. Even with an
Example: east-westerly alignment, you can still
30°; 45° south-west expect 85% with a roof inclination
between 25º and 40º.

A more steeply sloped installation

would be more favourable in winter, but
the system achieves two thirds of its
yield during the summer months. On the
other hand, an angle of inclination less
than 20 degrees should be avoided,
otherwise the solar generator will
become too contaminated, or
snowcovered.

Installing the collector array on different

roofs requires complex hydraulic
interconnections between the individual
collectors.
Every array is equipped with a separate
collector temperature sensor and a
separate pump line.
The increase in energy yield is therefore
offset by the higher installation costs,
resulting in a significantly reduced
cost:benefit ratio.

Shade reduces energy yield

Position and size the collector array so

that the influence of neighbouring
structures, trees, power lines, etc.,
which throw shadows over the array, is
5167 156 v3.1

minimised. Also consider how

neighbouring properties will be likely to
develop over a period of 20 years, as
regards additional buildings, plants and
saplings.

10
 Basic Principles of Solar Technology

Solar Energy (continued)

Inclination and orientation of collectors

To achieve optimum energy absorption,

the collectors must be oriented towards
the sun.
The angle of inclination and the azimuth
angle are the dimensions used to
determine the orientation of the
collectors.

Angle of inclination

Angle of inclination α

The angle of inclination a is the angle

between the horizontal and the collector
plane.
For pitched roof installations, the angle of
inclination is determined by the slope of the
roof.
The largest amount of energy can be
captured by the collector’s absorber when
the collector plane is aligned at right
angles to the irradiation of the sun.
Because the angle of irradiation depends
on the time of day and the time of year,
the collector plane should be aligned
according to the position of the sun during
IMPORTANT the phase of maximum energy supply.

The angle of inclination for Vitosol In practice, angles of inclination of

300-T collectors must be at least 25º in
order to guarantee circulation of the
evaporator liquid in the heat pipe
between 30 and 45º have proven to be
ideal.
For most installations in North America,
for example, an angle of inclination of
between 25 and 70º is advantageous,
depending on the period of use.

Lower angles of inclination are better for

applications where more energy is
required in the summer months (i.e. pool
heating). Higher angles of inclination are
better for applications where more energy
is required in the winter months.
Capturing the maximum amount of energy
throughout the year can be achieved using
an angle of inclination equal to the latitude
of the building site. This is ideal for
domestic hot water heating applications.

Azimuth angle

The azimuth angle describes the deviation

Example:
Collector plane of the collector plane from south; the
Deviation from south: 15º east Azimuth angle collector plane aligned to the south is the
azimuth angle = 0º.
Because solar irradiation is at its most
5167 156 v3.1

intensive at midday, the collector plane

should be oriented as closely as possible
to the south. However, deviations from
south up to 45º south-east or south-west
have minimal impact on annual energy
production.

11
Basic Principles of Solar Technology
Overall System Optimization
A high-quality solar collector cannot by
itself guarantee the optimum operation
of a solar installation. This depends
more on the complete system solution
as a whole.
Viessmann supplies all the components
required for a solar heating system:
DHW
Solar collector
Solar-Divicon (pumping station)
Overflow container
Expansion vessel
Solar manual filling pump
System fill manifold valve
*1 Install at least one air-vent valve (quick-acting air-vent valve or a manual vent valve, see page 43) at the highest point of
the system.
12
H a control unit that is tailored to the
individual solar heating system,
H a DHW tank incorporating a solar heat
exchanger low inside the tank,
H a preassembled pump station with all
necessary hydraulic components,
H design details aimed at achieving
fast-responding control and therefore
maximum yields from the solar
heating system.
T T
S R
DCW
Brass elbow c/w sensor well
Dual-mode DHW tank
I Tank temperature sensor
Air separator
Solar control unit
Flexible connection pipe
Correctly designed solar heating
systems with well matched system
components can cover 50 to 80 % of
the annual energy demand for DHW
heating in detached and semi-detached
houses.
We will be pleased to assist you with
the design of solar heating systems.
The elements of a solar heating system
are shown in the diagram.
Collector temperature sensor
Fast air-vent, c/w shutoff valve *1
R Return to collector
S Supply from collector
5167 156 v3.1
 Specification

Construction and Function of Collectors

Vitosol 200-F flat panel collector

Vitosol 200-F flat plate solar collector is

available as:
H Vertical version Model SV2 and
horizontal version Model SH2, each
offering 2.3 m2 / 25 ft2 absorber
surface.

The main component of Vitosol 100 is

the Sol-Titanium coated copper
absorber.
It ensures high absorption of solar
radiation and low emission of thermal
radiation. A copper pipe through which
the heat transfer medium flows is fitted
to the absorber. The heat transfer
medium channels the absorber heat
through the copper pipe.
The meander-shaped direct flow
absorber of models SV2 and SH2
provides an extremely even flow
through each individual collector in the
collector arrays.
The absorber is surrounded by a highly
insulated collector housing which
minimises collector heat losses. The
high quality thermal insulation provides
temperature stability and is free from
gas emissions.
The cover comprises a solar glass panel.
The glass has a very low iron content,
thereby reducing reflection losses.

Continuous profiled seal (vulcanised) Mineral fiber

Aluminum frame sections The collector housing comprises a
Solar glass cover, 3.2 mm thick
Aluminum-zinc bottom panel powder-coated aluminium frame
Meander-shaped copper pipe
Connection pipe (recycled aluminium), within which the
Copper absorber
solar glass panel is permanently sealed.
Melamine resin foam
Model SV2 and SH2
Up to twelve collectors can be joined to
form a single collector array. For this
purpose, the standard delivery includes
flexible connection pipes, sealed with
O-rings.

A general connection kit with clamping

ring connections enables the collector
array to be readily attached to the pipes
of the solar circuit.
The collector temperature sensor is
installed in the solar circuit flow via a
Technical Data Vitosol 200-F, SV2/SH2 sensor well set.

Model Gross Area Absorber Aperture Dimensions Weight

Area Area
m2 ft2 m2 ft2 m2 ft2 mm in kg lb
5167 156 v3.1

SV2 2.51 27.0 2.32 25 2.33 25.1 1056x 41¾x 52 115

2380x90 93¾x3½
SH2 2.51 27.0 2.32 25 2.33 25.1 2380x90x 93¾x41¾x 52 115
1056 x3½

13
Specification

Construction and Function of Collectors (continued)

Vitosol 300-T vacuum tube collector

Vitosol 300-T vacuum tube collectors

are available in two types:
20 tube version,
30 tube version

The tube shape gives the collector great

stability and high impact resistence.
Re-evacuation of the tubes is not
necessary as the tubes have a
permanent airtight seal.

The vacuum in the glass tubes ensures

optimum heat insulation. Convection
losses between the glass tube and the
absorber are almost completely
eliminated. This enables the utilisation
of even low radiation levels (diffused
radiation). The performance of the
collector does not drop off as
significantly in cold weather as a flat
plate collector. On average,
approximately 30% to 50% higher
annual solar energy gain than flat plate
collectors can be expected.
Built into each vacuum tube is a
Sol-Titanium coated copper absorber. It
is a highly selective surface that
ensures high absorption of solar
radiation and low emission of thermal
radiation.

A heat pipe filled with an evaporator

liquid is arranged on the absorber. The
heat pipe is connected to the condenser
Evacuated glass tube Condenser via a flexible coupling. The condenser is
Heat pipe Double pipe heat exchanger mounted in a double pipe heat
Absorber exchanger.
This involves a so-called ”dry
connection”, i.e. pipes can be rotated or
replaced even when the installation is
filled and under pressure.
Heat is transferred from the absorber to
Technical Data Vitosol 300-T, 2m2/3m2 the heat pipe. This lets the liquid
evaporate. The vapour then rises to the
Model Gross Area Absorber Aperture Dimensions Weight condenser.
Area Area The heat is transferred to the passing
m2 ft2 m2 ft2 m2 ft2 mm in kg lb heat transfer medium by the
double-pipe heat exchanger containing
2m2 2.83 30.5 2.05 22 2.11 22.7 1419x 55¾x 45 99 the condenser which causes the vapour
1996x 78½x to condense. The condensate flows
122 4¾ back into the heat pipe and the process
is repeated.
3m2 4.24 45.6 3.07 33 3.17 34.1 2126x 83¾x 68 150
1996x 78½x Please note:
122 4¾ The angle of inclination must be at least
5167 156 v3.1

25º to guarantee circulation of the

evaporator liquid inside the heat
exchanger.

14
 Specification

Construction and Function of Collectors (continued)

Vitosol 300-T (continued)

Absorber surface areas of up to 6 m2

can be joined to form a single collector
array. For this purpose, the standard
delivery includes flexible connection
pipes, sealed with O-rings.
A connection kit with clamping ring
connections enables the collector array
to be readily connected to the pipes of
the solar circuit.
The collector temperature sensor is
installed in a sensor mounting on the
flow pipe in the connection housing of
the collectors.

102mm /
4”

Legend

Groove for retaining clip

5167 156 v3.1

15
 Specification

Collector Efficiency

Some of the solar radiation striking the
glass of the collectors is ”lost” due to
reflection and absorption. The optical
efficiency ηo takes these losses into
account.
When the collectors heat up, they
transfer heat to the environment as the
result of conduction, radiation and
convection. These thermal losses are
allowed for by the heat loss factors k1
and k2 .
The heat loss factors and optical
efficiency combine to form the collector
efficiency curve which can be
calculated on the basis of the following
formula:
η = η o − k 1 ⋅ ∆T − k2 ⋅ ∆T
2
Eg Eg
Eg= radiation intensity (W/m2)
∆ T = Temperature difference between
ambient air and collector fluid ºC
If the difference between the collector
and ambient temperature is zero, the
collector loses no heat to the
environment, and the efficiency η is at
its maximum level; this is known as the
optical efficiency ηo.
The thermal capacity is a measure of
the thermal inertia of the collector, and
shows the response behaviour of the
collector when heating and cooling. A
low thermal capacity is of advantage
with wide ranging temparature and
weather conditions typical in northerly
climates.

The table below lists comparative

values for the optical efficiency and the
heat loss factors as tested in European
certification labs.
Vitosol 200-F and 300-T are both
tested and certified in North America to
SRCC OG-100.

Collector type Opt. efficiency Heat loss factors Spec. thermal

level capacity
p y
*1 in
i % kJ/( 2 · K)
kJ/(m
ηo k1 in k2 in
W/(m2 · K) W/(m2 · K2)
Vitosol 200-F 79.3 3.95 0.0122 6.4
Vitosol 300-T 82.5 1.19 0.009 5.4
*1 ηo based on absorber area
H
0.9

0.8

0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2
Efficiency

0.1

0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Temperature difference in degrees C between ambient air and collector fluid
5167 156 v3.1

Vitosol 300-T
Vitosol 200-F

16
 Specification

Solar Coverage

Vitosol 200-F The solar coverage value indicates

what percentage of the energy required
annually for domestic hot water
applications can be covered by the solar
Absorber surface in m2

heating system.
The absorber surface area should be
sized so that the ”production” of
surplus heat is just about avoided
during the summer months.
The higher the solar cover rate, the
lower the efficiency, since a high cover
rate has the effect of raising the
temperature level of the solar circuit.
This results in increased heat losses
ltrs/day and lower seasonal efficiency.
0 13 26 40 53 66 79 92 106 USG/day

DHW consumption The diagrams show the coverage values

that can be achieved with the various
collector types, based on
Vitosol 300-T USG/day
H the meteorological records for a
typical location at 49° latitude,
H south-facing roofs,
Absorber surface in m2

H a roof pitch of 45º and

H a DHW temperature of 113°F / 45ºC
in the standby tank.
This data represents approximate guide
values.

Note:
Solar fractions will be higher for
locations in southern parts of the USA
due to higher levels of radiation.
ltrs/day
0 13 26 40 53 66 79 92 106 USG/day

DHW consumption

Influence of various parameters on solar coverage

Reference system:
Reference system 62
100 litres/day 76 H 4-person household with hot water
consumption of 53 USG/day / 200
300 litres/day 52
litres/day
400 litres/day 45 H 2 Vitosol 200-F collectors, model
Collector inclination 30° 61 SV2 and SH2
H 45º roof inclination
Collector inclination 60° 61 H South-facing roof orientation
Westerly orientation 45 H Dual-mode DHW cylinder, 300 litres
South-west orientation 56 H Meteorological records for a typical
*1
location at 49° latitude
Vacuum tubes 77
Hannover 55 The bars indicate the expected
coverage values for deviations from the
Freiburg 69 reference system.
0 20 40 60 80
Solar cover rate in %
5167 156 v3.1

*1 For comparable absorber surface area.

17
Specification

Collector Installation and Mounting

Installation options for different collector types

Viessmann offers universal mounting

systems to simplify installation. The
mounting systems are suitable for
virtually all forms of roofs, as well as
installation on flat roofs or ground
mounted free-standing installations.

Fitting Collector type

Pitched roofs A Vitosol 200-F, model SV2
Vitosol 300-T
B Vitosol 200-F, model SH2
Flat roofs C Vitosol 200-F, model SV2, SH2
Vitosol 300-T
Freestanding installation D Vitosol 200-F, model SV2, SH2
Vitosol 300-T

Sloped roofs - rooftop installation

Required roof area

Collector Type A mm A in B mm B in
Vitosol 200-F,
type SV2 2380 93 3/4 1056 + 16*1 41 5/8 + 5/8*1
Vitosol 200-F,
type SH2 1056 41 5/8 2380 + 16*1 93 3/4 + 5/8*1
5167 156 v3.1

Vitosol 300-T,
type SP3, 2m2 2031 80 1418 + 102*1 55 3/4 + 4*1
Vitosol 300-T,
type SP3, 3m2 2031 80 2127 + 102*1 83 3/4 + 4*1
*1 Add this value for every additional collector.
18
 Specification

Collector Installation and Mounting (continued)

Vitosol 200-F flat panel collector

Flat collectors are ideally suited for
domestic hot water and swimming pool
heating applications.
Both vertical and horizontal types are
suitable for installation on pitched roofs.
The selection of method of installation
is influenced by the structural
characteristics of the building.
Model SH2 has been specially designed
for installation on flat roofs and for
freestanding installation.
Viessmann offers a universal fastening
system to simplify installation. The
fastening system is suitable for virtually
all forms of roof and roofing.
Installation kits are available for
installing collectors on flat roofs.
An engineering evaluation is required to
establish additional superimposed loads
from wind or snow, as described in the
local building code. Retain the services
of a professional structural engineer to
calculate additional live loads due to the
installation of solar collectors on the
roof.

Sloped Roofs Installation Details

b
40
10

Collector
Lag bolt
Mounting rail
Roof bracket

Collector Dimension a b c
Model SV2 inches 93¾ 74¾ - 82½ 3½
mm 2 380 1 900 - 2 100 89
Model SH2 inches 41¾ 19½ - 35½ 3½
500 - 900 89
5167 156 v3.1

mm 1 138

19
Specification

Collector Installation and Mounting (continued)

Flat roof installation

The collectors should be installed with
an angle of inclination of 35º to 45º if
the load capacity of the roof allows
this. Maintain a minimum distance of
2m/6ft from the roof edge in all
installations.
Outside of this area you may
A collector system must be secured by
additional weights against slippage and
lifting (see table on the following page).
Slippage is the movement of the
collectors on the roof surface due to
wind, because of insufficient friction
between the roof surface and the
H Collectors secured against lifting
require less ballast weight, but
additional attachment to the roof or
building structure with wires, cables
or other sufficient means.

Min. 6 ft/
experience significant increases in wind collector system.
turbulance. The system will also be

2m
hard to access if modifications are H Collectors secured against slippage Roof edge
required. If the roof size dictates a require more ballast weight, but no Min. 6 ft/
modification of the array distribution, additional attachment to the roof or 2m
ensure that arrays of the same size are substructure.
created. Collector
array

Determining the collector row distance

“z”

When installing several collector rows in
sequence, exact dimensions (dimension
“z”) must be maintained to prevent
unwanted shade.
Determine angle of the sun β.
This should be chosen so that the
midday sun on Dec. 12 can fall onto the
collector without creating shade.
In North America, this angle is
dependent upon latitude and is between
13º (Edmonton) and 41º (Miami).
Example
Boston is located approx. 42.5º latitude.
Angle of the sun β= 90º-23.5º-latitude
(23.5º should be accepted as the
constant)
90º-23.5º-42.5º = 24º

l · sin (180 º - ( α+ β ))
z =
sin β

Vitosol 200-F, type SV2

l l
l = 2380mm
α α α= 45º β = 24º (Boston)
β
2385mm
0 sin (180 º - 69 º)
z z =
sin 24º
z = Collector row distance α = Collector angle of inclination
l = Collector height β = Angle of the sun z = 5474mm
(see page 13 and 14)

Collector row distance ”z” (all

dimensions in mm)
Collector type Vitosol 200-F Vitosol 300-T
Type SV2 Type SH2
Angle of inclination α Angle of inclination α Angle of inclination α

Angle of sun β 35º 45º 35º 45º 35º 45º 55º

15.0º 7059 7880 3140 3550 5991 6772 7349
17.5º 6292 7035 2799 3130 5340 5970 6419
20.0º 5712 6320 2541 2812 4848 5363 5716
5167 156 v3.1

22.5º 5256 5758 2338 2561 4461 4886 5164

25.0º 4887 5303 2174 2359 4148 4500 4716
27.5º 4582 4926 2038 2191 3888 4180 4346

20
 Specification

Collector Installation and Mounting (continued)

Vitosol 200-F flat panel collector (continued)

Please refer to Vitosol 200-F Installation

instructions for additional information on IMPORTANT
collector mounting on 5285 710.
An evaluation by a professional
structural engineer is required to
calculate additional live loads due to the
installation of solar collectors on a roof.

Vitosol 200-F, type SV2 and SH2

Collector angle of inclination - 25º or 45º
Ballast to be applied and maximum load on the substructures of flat roofs to DIN 1055

Collector angle of inclination 25º 45º

Ballast against slippage*1 Ballast against lifting*1 Ballast against slippage Ballast against lifting
Installation height above ground m up 8 20 up 8 20 up 8 20 up 8 20
to to to to to to to to to to to to
8 20 100 8 20 100 8 20 100 8 20 100
Ballast to be applied
Type SV2 kg 315 554 793 144 304 465 508 842 1213 128 224 346
Type SH2 kg 323 561 800 155 315 476 492 845 1198 132 254 375

*1 See description on page 20.

Collector supports
The collector supports are pre-assembled. They consist of foot support A, bearing supports and adjustment pieces. The
upper adjustment pieces contain holes for adjusting the angle of inclination.
Connection cross ties are required for 1 to 6 collectors connected in a series.

Type SV2 Type SH2

Foot support hole dimensions Foot support hole dimensions
80 80

11 11
75

75

50 50
722
897
1620
1795

A
A Foot support
100

100
5167 156 v3.1

21
Specification

Collector Installation and Mounting (continued)

Vitosol 200-F

Installation on substructures A

A Connection cross ties

Y
Z *1
X

*1 For calculating dimension “z”, see page 20

Installation with ballast A

A Connection cross ties

Y
Z *1
X

*1 For calculating dimension “z”, see page 20

5167 156 v3.1

Collector type x mm x in y mm y in
SV2 590 23 1/4 481 19
SH2 1920 75 5/8 481 19

22
 Specification

Collector Installation and Mounting (continued)

Vitosol 300-T sloped roof installation details

230mm /
9”
340mm /
13.4”

1650mm / Deviations from south

65” can be compensated by
1600mm / axial rotation of the
63” vacuum tubes.

Collector
Roof bracket
Roof joist
Collector installation rail with tube mountings
Roof sheathing complete with shingles
Lag bolt

2m2 version 1419mm/55 3/4” 102mm / 4” 3m2 version 2126mm/83 3/4”

5167 156 v3.1

23
Specification

Collector Installation and Mounting (continued)

Flat roof support weight requirements - Vitosol 300-T

Collector angle of inclination of 25º

Weight of supports

Secured against slippage*1 Secured against lifting*1

Installation height above ground ft. up to 26 26 to 66 up to 26 26 to 66
m up to 8 8 to 20 up to 8 8 to 20
Weight of supports 2m2 3m2 2m2 3m2 2m2 3m2 2m2 3m2
Version Version Version Version Version Version Version Version
lbs per support A 168 256 284 430 57 90 112 176
kg per support A 76 116 129 195 26 41 51 80

lbs per support B 225 342 392 593 141 220 276 421
kg per support B 102 155 178 269 64 100 125 191

*1 See description on page 20.

Support A
Support B

Model 2m2 Version 3m2 Version

Dimension X inches 76¼ 76¼
mm 1940 1940
Dimension Y inches 56¾ 84½
mm 1440 2149
Surface area (X x Y) ft.2 30 44½
m2 2.80 4.15
Weight of lbs 99 150
collector kg 45 68
5167 156 v3.1

24
 Specification

Collector Installation and Mounting (continued)

Flat roof support weight requirements - Vitosol 300-T (continued)

Collector angle of inclination of 45º

Weight of supports

Secured against slippage Secured against lifting

Installation height above ground ft. up to 26 26 to 66 up to 26 26 to 66
m up to 8 8 to 20 up to 8 8 to 20
Weight of supports 2m2 3m2 2m2 3m2 2m2 3m2 2m2 3m2
Version Version Version Version Version Version Version Version
lbs per support A H 20 344 390 586 -- -- -- --
kg per support A 225 156 177 266 -- -- -- --
102
lbs per support B 564 633 948 161 245 302 454
kg per support B 377 256 287 430 73 111 137 206
171

Support A
Support B

Model 2m2 Version 3m2 Version

Dimension X inches 60¼ 60¼
mm 1530 1530
Dimension Y inches 56¾ 84½
mm 1440 2149
Surface area (X x Y) ft.2 24 35
m2 2.20 3.27
Weight of lbs 99 150
collectors kg 45 68
5167 156 v3.1

25
Specification
General Installation Instructions
H Vitosol solar collectors are hailproof.
Nevertheless we recommend to
include bad weather and hail damage
coverage into your home owners
insurance package. Our warranty does
not cover such damages.
H Please observe local building code
guidelines for maximum load
restrictions on the substructure and
for necessary distance to roof edge.
H Make sure to remove snow off
collectors if more than 20” / 50 cm
have accumulated.
H Mount collectors carefully, so that
even during storm and bad weather
mounting clamps can absorb any
tension.
26
H An access door or skylight should be
provided in the roof in the vicinity of
the collectors to facilitate inspection
and maintenance work.
H When there is a relatively large
distance between the collector panel
and the roof ridge, a snow board must
be installed above the collector panel
in regions where heavy snowfalls can
be expected.
H Filling the solar heating systems with
Viessmann “Tyfocor-HTL” heat
transfer medium is highly
recommended. Other heat transfer
fluids may be suitable if they have the
same temperature range (-35ºC /
-31ºF to 170ºC / 338ºF) and are
non-toxic.
H Use high temperature insulation
materials. In pump idle mode and with
strong solar irradiation, collectors
could reach an idle temperature of
over 200ºC / 392ºF. Protect pipe
insulation and sensor cables against
attack by birds and animals.
H Grounding and lightning protection of
the solar heating system
An electrically conductive connection
of the pipework system of the solar
circuit should be implemented in the
lower part of the building in
accordance with local regulations.
Connection of the collector system to
a new or existing lightning protection
system or the provision of local
grounding should only be carried out
by a licensed professional, taking local
conditions into account.
5167 156 v3.1
 Notes on Planning and Operation

Calculating the Required Absorber Surface Area

Calculating the absorber surface area and DHW tank capacity

Absorber surface area The basis for designing a solar DHW DHW tank capacity (solar storage)
Estimates based on meteorological heating system is the DHW daily The following values can be used as a
conditions such as annual global demand. It can be estimated based on basis for calculating the cylinder
radiation, cloud cover etc. are the following table: storage capacity:
sufficiently accurate for practical The total available solar DHW tank
purposes. In order to obtain a DHW Demand capacity (dual-coil tank or preheating
comprehensive summary of the solar Vp tank) should be sized on the basis of
coverage for domestic hot water litres/(d · person) 1.5 to 2 times the daily requirements.
heating, it is recommended that this For DHW temps For fluctuating DHW demand use larger
estimate should form the basis of a temps. storage (daily demand x2). For relatively
calculation carried out using a solar 45ºC 60ºC constant demand use value 1.5.
computer simulation. Viessmann can The minimum solar storage tank volume
provide design support and computer Residential should be based on 50 liter/m2/
simulations upon request. Contact your properties*1 1.25gal/ft2 collector absorber area.
local Viessmann sales representative. High demands 50 - 80 35-56
The cover rate determined by this Average demands 30- 50 21-35
program should be 50 to 60 % for Low demands 15 - 30 11-21
relatively small systems (detached
house), and at least 40 % for larger
systems (apartment block).
Guide values for estimating the required
absorber surface area can be drawn
from the table on page 30.
The absorber surface area calculated on
the basis of this table has proved to be
accurate in practice.

Typical Solar Storage and Collector Selection

# People Daily DHW Demand Solar Tank Vitosol 200-F Flat Plate Vitosol 300-T
in household @ 50ºC/120ºF Capacity Collectors SH2/SV2 Tube Collectors
120L 200L
2 1 1x2m2
32 gal. 53 gal.
180-240L 300L
3-4 2 1x3m2
48-63 gal. 79 gal.
300-360L 450L
5-6 3 1x2m2 + 1x3m2
79-95 gal. 120 gal.
5167 156 v3.1

27
Notes on Planning and Operation

Calculating the Required Absorber Surface Area

System for space heating backup - DHW cylinder and collector

100
The period when the greatest amount of
solar energy is available does not
coincide with the time when the most
heat is required.
While the heat consumption for DHW
75 A heating is relatively constant
throughout the year, only very little
solar energy is available at the times
when the heat demand for central
heating is at its highest (see diagram).
A relatively large absorber area is
50 required to provide central heating
Energy requirement or gain (%)

backup. In summer, this can result in

stagnation in the solar circuit. Systems
E
for heating backup require additional
storage tanks and controls.
The basis for sizing a solar heating
25 B system for central heating backup is the
space heating demand of the building
D during spring, autumn and in winter, as
well as the heating demand in summer
C (i.e. the demand for DHW heating).
0
Heat demand in summer, e.g to avoid
condensation in cellars, to use
Aug.

underfloor heating in bathrooms,

Nov.
Dec.
Mar.

Sep.
Apr.

Jun.
Jan.
Feb.

May

Oct.
Jul.

increases the demand. For efficient

operation of a solar central heating
backup, the collector area should be 2
A Space heating requirement for one house (typical construction) to 2.5 times larger than the DHW heat
B Space heating requirement for one low energy house demand in summer requires.
C Hot water requirement To avoid excessive summer time
D Solar energy yield at 5 m2 absorber surface (2 flat collectors) temperature stagnation avoid using
E Solar energy yield at 15 m2 absorber surface (6 flat collectors) collector areas greater than 3 times
what would be used for DHW
requirements only.

Concentrating exclusively on the central For buildings with a higher energy

heating demand can lead to problematic demand the coverage drops lower.
oversizing of the system. Use the Viessmann ESOP calculation
For low energy houses (heat demand program when making sizing
less than 50 kWh/(m2p.a.), solar calculations.
coverage of 20 to 25% refers to the Max. connectable collector area when
total energy demand, incl. provision for using Vitocell tanks must follow the
DHW heating. chart on page 31.
5167 156 v3.1

28
 Notes on Planning and Operation

Calculating the Required Absorber Surface Area (continued)

Swimming pool water heating system - heat exchanger and collector

Open-air swimming pools Note

Open-air swimming pools are mainly
used between May and September [in
northern USA]. The energy demand
required depends mainly on the leakage
rate, evaporation, loss (water must be
replenished cold) and the transmission
Revising and maintaining the pool
temperature at a higher base level using
a conventional heating system does not
alter this ratio. However, the pool will
be heated up much more quickly.
25

Average pool temperature in 0C

heat loss. Through using a cover, the
evaporation and consequently the
energy demand of the pool is reduced 20
to a minimum. The largest energy input
comes direct from the sun, which 15
shines onto the pool surface. Therefore
the pool has a ”natural” base
temperature which can be shown in the 10
adjacent diagram as an average pool
temperature over the operating time. 5 Location Boston
40m2 Upper surface
A solar heating system in no way alters 1.5m deep
this typical temperature pattern. The 0
Jan Feb MarApr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec protected position
solar application leads to a definite covered at night
increase in the base temperature.
Subject to the ratio between the pool 8
surface and the collector area, a
Average temperature increases

different temperature can be reached. 7

6
The adjacent diagram shows with
which ratio of aperture or absorber area 5
to the pool surface what average 4
in degrees C/day

temperature increase can be reached.

This ratio is independent of the collector 3
type used due to the comparably low 2
collector temperatures and the
operating period (summer). For this 1
reason, unglazed collectors are most
0
often used for outdoor pools. 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0 1.1 1.2
Ratio-absorber area to the pool surface
(open-air swimmimg pool)
Indoor swimming pools

Indoor swimming pools generally have a
higher target temperature than open-air
pools and are used throughout the year.
If, over the course of the year, a
constant pool temperature is required,
indoor swimming pools must be heated
in dual-mode. To avoid sizing errors, the
energy demand of the pool must be
measured. For this, suspend heating the
water for 48 hours and determine the
temperature at the beginning and end of
the test period. The daily energy
5167 156 v3.1
On a summer day (clear skies), a 62.6 kWh
collector system used to heat a Collector area: =13.9m2
swimming pool in northern USA 4.5 kWh/m2
produces energy of approx. 4.5kWh/m2
absorber area. This corresponds to 6 collectors.
Calculation example for Vitosol 200-F For a first approximation (cost
Pool surface: 36 m2 estimate), an average temperature loss
Average pool depth: 1.5m of 1C/day can be used. With an average
Pool capacity: 54m3 pool depth of 1.5m an energy demand
Temperature loss of 1.74kWh/day is required to maintain
on 2 days: 2ºC the base temperature. It is therefore

demand can therefore be calculated Daily energy demand: sensible to use approx. 0.4m2 absorber
from the temperature difference and the area per m2 of pool surface.
capacity of the pool. For new builds, kWh
the heat demand of the swimming pool 54m3⋅1K⋅1.16 = 62.6kWh
K m3
must be calculated.

29
Notes on Planning and Operation

Calculating the Required Absorber Surface Area (continued)

Guide values for sizing solar heating systems (continued)

H Absorber surface area (data based on meteorological records for a site at 49° latitude)

Application Required absorber

surface area A 60 % 40 up to 50 %
for coverage of Vitosol 200-F Vitosol 300-T Vitosol 200-F Vitosol 300-T
DHW heating
Detached & semi-detached ft.2/person 13 - 16 8.6 - 10.8 10.8 - 13 6.5 - 8.6
houses m2/person 1.2 - 1.5 0.8 - 1.0 1.0 - 1.2 0.6 - 0.8
Multi-occupancy dwellings ft.2/person 8.6 - 11.8 6.5 - 8.6 6.5 - 8.6 4.3 - 6.5
m2/person 0.8 - 1.1 0.6 - 0.8 0.6 - 0.8 0.4 - 0.6

Information regarding the DHW cylinder

When sizing the solar heating system,
observe the max. aperture area which
may be connected to the different DHW
cylinders.
At a design output of 600W/m2 and a
temperature difference between DHW
temperature (at the height of the solar
heat exchanger, lower indirect coil) and If a higher system temperature range is
solar circuit return (lower than 10ºC), acceptable, then the number of
the max. number of collectors collectors can be no more than doubled.
mentioned in the table (values apply to
all Viessmann collectors) should not be
exceeded.

DHW Tank Capacity Max. connectable number of collectors

Vitosol 200-F Vitosol 300-T 2m2 Vitosol 300-T 3m2
Vitocell-B 300 L/79 gal. 4 5 3
100/300
Vitocell-B 450 L/120 gal. 7 7 5
100/300
Vitocell-V 200 L/53 gal. 3 4 3
100/300 300 L/79 gal. 4 5 3
450 L/120 gal. 7 7 5

5167 156 v3.1

30

Sizing Pipe Diameters and Circulation Pump
Solar heating system operating modes
Volume flow in the collector array
Generally, very low flow rates are
required for Vitosol collectors. This
results in small pipe and pump
requirements. There are different
operating modes, which depend on the
total area of collectors installed, and
piping requirements.
At the same irradiation level, and
consequently the same collector output,
a higher flow rate means a lower
temperature spread in the collector
circuit; a lower flow rate means a
higher temperature spread. With a high
temperature spread, the average
collector temperature increases, i.e the
operating efficiency of the collector
drops accordingly. Therefore, with
lower flow rates the use of electrical
energy (pump size) reduces and a
smaller size connection pipe is possible.
To safeguard a safe flow rate and a
turbulent flow, Vitosol flat-plate
collectors require a flow rate of at least
15 liters/(h.m2). Vitosol tube collectors
require at least 25 liters/(h.m2).
Generally, when setting the collector
volume flow, the necessary volume
flow of the connected heat exchanger
should also be taken into account.
1. High-flow mode
For solar heating systems up to
270º ft.2 / 25 m2 absorber surface
area, we recommend the high flow
operation. This reduces the temperature
spread between supply and return.
The higher flow rate requires a slightly
larger pipework size, and larger pump
sizes.
In the high-flow operating mode, the
pipes can be sized on the basis of a
flowrate of
H Vitosol 200-F: approx. 40 liters/h per
m2 absorber surface area (approx.
0.18 gpm/m2 absorber surface area).
H Vitosol 300-T: 60 liters/h per m2
absorber surface area
(0.27 gpm/m2 absorber surface area).
2. Low-flow mode
For large solar installations (larger than
270 ft.2 / 25 m2 absorber surface area),
low flow mode operation can be used..
5167 156 v3.1
Advantages of the low-flow mode:
H A high temperature level is reached
quickly in the collector circuit.
H The low flow rate in the collector
circuit means that much smaller pipe
sizes are required.
Notes on Planning and Operation
H A smaller pump capacity is required
resulting in lower electrical IMPORTANT
consumption.
Do not use galvanized pipes, galvanized
In the low-flow operating mode, the fittings or graphitised gaskets. Hemp
pipes can be sized on the basis of a should be used only in conjunction with
flowrate of pressure and temperature-resistant
H Vitosol 200-F: approx. 15 liters/h per sealant.
m2 absorber surface area (approx.
0.07 gpm/m2 absorber surface area).
IMPORTANT
H Vitosol 300-T: approx. 25 litrers/h per
m2 absorbed surface area (approx. The components used must be resistant
0.11gpm/m2 absorber surface area). to the heat transfer medium (for
composition, see the datasheet for the
With both collector models, a uniform specific collector).
flow rate through all collectors is
guaranteed if the Viessmann piping
layout drawings are followed. To reduce IMPORTANT
the amount of installation work required
for the piping, it is advisable to connect The thermal insulation of external piping
two rows of collectors with all piping must be resistant to temperature, UV
connections on one side of the array. radiation and to attack by birds or
animals.
Pipe installation information
Insulate internal ”hot” pipework
To minimise the pressure drop through according to current practice (fire
the piping of the solar heating systems, protection, touch protection), e.g. using
the flow velocity in the copper pipe high-temperature resistant insulation,
should not exceed 3.5ft/s. We as offered by Armacell.
recommend flow velocities between 1.3
and 2.3ft/s. At these flow velocities,
pressure drops of between 1 and 2.5
mbar/m pipe length occur.
For the installation of the collectors, we
recommend the use of commercial
copper pipe and red bronze fittings or
stainless steel pipe. The cross-sections
should be sized as for a conventional
heating system on the basis of flow
rate and velocity (see the tables below).
31
Notes on Planning and Operation

Sizing Pipe Diameters and Circulation Pump (continued)

Sizing pipe diameters (continued)

Vitosol 200-F (high-flow operating mode), 40 liters/(h.m2) or 0.18gpm/m2

Number of 2 3 4 5 6 8 10 12
collectors
Model SV2 and SH2
Volume flow gpm 0.8 1.2 1.6 2.1 2.5 3.3 4.1 4.9
liters/min 3.1 4.6 6.2 7.8 9.3 12.4 15.5 18.6
Flow velocity ft./s 1.3 to 2.3
m/s 0.4 to 0.7
Pressure drop in the ft. of
pipework head/ft. 0.11 to 0.27
mbar/m 1.0 to 2.5

Vitosol 300-T (high-flow operating mode), 60 liters/(h.m2) or 0.3gpm/m2

Absorber m2 2 3 4 5 6 8 10 12 15
surface area
Volume flow gpm 0.53 0.8 1.1 1.3 1.6 2.1 2.6 3.2 4.0
liters/min 2 3 4 5 6 8 10 12 15
Flow velocity ft./s 1.3 to 2.3
m/s 0.4 to 0.7
Pressure drop ft. of
in the head/ft. 0.11 to 0.27
pipework mbar/m 1.0 to 2.5

Vitosol 200-F (low-flow operating mode), 15 liters/(h.m2) or 0.07gpm/m2

Number of 2 3 4 5 6 8 10 12
collectors
Model SV2 and SH2 gpm 0.3 0.5 0.6 0.8 0.92 1.25 1.53 1.85
Volume flow liters/min 1.2 1.8 2.3 2.9 3.5 4.7 5.8 7.0
Flow velocity ft./s 0.7 to 1.3
m/s 0.2 to 0.4
Pressure drop in the ft. of
pipework head/ft. 0.11 to 0.27
mbar/m 1.0 to 2.5

Vitosol 300-T (low-flow operating mode), 25 liters/(h.m2) or 0.11gpm/m2

Absorber m2 2 3 4 5 6 8 10 12 15
surface area
Volume flow gpm 0.21 0.3 0.45 0.6 0.7 0.9 1.1 1.3 1.64
liters/min 0.8 1.2 1.7 2.1 2.5 3.3 4.2 5.0 6.2
Flow velocity ft./s 0.7 to 1.3
m/s 0.2 to 0.4
Pressure drop ft. of
in the head/ft. 0.11 to 0.27
pipework mbar/m 1.0 to 2.5
5167 156 v3.1

32
 Notes on Planning and Operation

Sizing Pipe Diameters and Circulation Pump (continued)

Installation examples (hydraulic connection)

Vitosol 200-F, type SV2/SH2

High -flow operation

Installation of collectors, connection on Installation of collectors, single-sided

alternate sides, max. 12 connection, max. 10 collectors.
collectors.
Ø 28x1
C C
A
Ø 28x1
A
max. 12 Supply (hot)
max. 10 Return
B B Air vent valve (shut-off type)
Ø 28x1
Ø 28x1

Low-flow operation

Installation of collectors, connection on Installation of collectors, single-sided

alternate sides, max. 10 connection, max. 8 collectors.
collectors.
Ø 18x1
C C
A
A Ø 18x1

max. 10 max. 8
B Supply (hot)
B Return
Ø 18x1 Air vent valve (shut-off type)
Ø 18x1

Vitosol 300-T, type SP3

Installation on pitched roofs (max. 6 per

array)

Connection from the left (preferred Connection from the right

option)

C C
A A
B B
Ø 18x1 Ø 18x1

Supply (hot)
Return
Air vent valve (shut-off type)
5167 156 v3.1

33
 Notes on Planning and Operation

Sizing Pipe Diameters and Circulation Pump (continued)

Collector pressure drop information (relative to water, approx. 30% higher for Tyfocor HTL @ 40ºC)

Vitosol 200-F, flat plate collector Vitosol 300-T vacuum tube collector
model SV2 and SH2

“ w.c.

mbar
” w.c. mbar
800 2000 80 200

400 1000 40 100

32 80

24 60
200 500
20 50
160 400 16 40
120 300
Pressure drop

12 30
80 200
Pressure drop

8 20

40 100
4 10

3.2 8
20 50
2.4 6
40 2 5
12 30
2 3 4 5 l/min 1.6 4
0.5 1
0.3 0.5 0.8 1.11.3 gpm
1.2 3

Waterflow 0.8 2

1
1 2 3 4 5 6 10 ltr/h

0.3 0.5 0.8 1.1 1.3 1.6 2.6 GPM

Waterflow

1 x 2m2
1 x 3m2
2 x model 2m2
1 x model 2m2 and 1 x model 3m2
2 x model 3m2

Calculating pressure drop

The total pressure drop of the solar
heating system consists of:
H collector resistance values,
H pipe resistance values,
H individual resistance values of the
fittings and
H individual resistance values of the
fittings and
H resistance values of the heat
exchanger in the DHW tank.
For calculation of total pressure drop
H Collectors connected in series:
Total pressure drop = sum of the
individual resistance values
H Collectors connected in parallel:
Total pressure drop = individual
pressure drop (assuming all individual
resistance values are equal).
5167 156 v3.1

34
 Notes on Planning and Operation

Sizing Pipe Diameters and Circulation Pump (continued)

Sizing the circulation pump

If the flowrate and pressure drop of the
entire system are known, the pump is
selected on the basis of the pump
characteristics.
Variable-speed pumps which can be
matched to the system by switching
are the most suitable.
To simplify the installation and selection
of the pumps and safety equipment,
Viessmann supplies the Solar-Divicon.
The Solar-Divicon comprises
H pre-assembled and sealed valves and
safety assembly,
H flow regulating valve with meter to
control the solar heating system
during commissioning and operation,
H flow check valves,
H system pump (2 sizes available),
H pressure gage,
H 2 thermometers,
H 2 isolation valves,
H pressure relief valve, 87 psig / 6 bar.
Two models of Solar-Divicon are
available:
Model DN 20
H up to 12 Vitosol 200-F collectors
H up to 20 m2 absorber surface area
with Vitosol 300-T,
Model DN 25
H up to 18 Vitosol 200-F collectors
H up to 30 m2 absorber surface area
with Vitosol 300-T.
Final determination of which
Solar-Divicon model to use must be
based on system layout and pipe sizes
used.
IMPORTANT
The Solar-Divicon and the solar pump
line are not suitable for direct contact
with swimming pool water or potable
water.
IMPORTANT
Always install Solar-Divicon at a lower
height than the collectors to prevent
steam from entering the expansion
vessel in the event of stagnation.
IMPORTANT
For systems which are installed in the
roof space or involve short pipe lengths,
a preliminary vessel should be provided
if necessary.

1 Pressure relief valve, 87 psig/6 bar

2 Expansion tank connection
3 Pressure gage, 0-6 bar/0-87 psig
4 Temperature gage c/w integrated
shut-off valves and flow check
valves
5 Pump
6 Flow meter
7 Insulation door
8 Flush and fill manifold
9 Air separator (locked under
insulation)

VL Flow
RL Return

Shut-off valve
A Thermometer
B Non-return valve
Solar circuit circulation pump
C Flow rate indicator
D
A
5167 156 v3.1

VL RL

The solar circuit pump line is constructed as the pump line of the Solar-Divicon.

35
Notes on Planning and Operation

Sizing Pipe Diameters and Circulation Pump (continued)

Technical information on the Solar-Divicon

Solar-Divicon Model DN 20 DN 25
Circulation pump (Model: Wilo) STAR S 16 U 15 STAR S 21 U 25
Rated voltage V AC 115 AC 115
Maximum delivery GPM 16 16.7

Maximum head ft. 20.7 21.1

Flow meter (setting range) USG/min 0.5 to 5 1 to 10

Flow meter (setting range) ltrs/min 1 to 20 5 to 40
Pressure relief valve psig, 87 87
bar 6 6
Maximum operating temperature °F, 248 248
°C 120 120
Maximum operating pressure psig, 87 87
bar 6 6
Connections (Compression fittings Ø):
Solar circuit inches 1/2 3/
4
mm 22 22
Solar expansion tank inches 3/ 3/
4 4
mm 22 22
Safety relief valve inches 3/ 3/
4 4
mm 22 22

Characteristics

Pump model DN 20 Pump model DN 25

5167 156 v3.1

36
 Notes on Planning and Operation

Safety Equipment

Liquid capacity of solar heating system components

Vitosol 200-F, model SV2 USG 0.48

liters 1.83
Vitosol 200-F, model SH2 USG 0.65
liters 2.48
Vitosol 300-T, model 2m2 USG 0.32
liters 1.20
model 3m2 USG 0.47
liters 1.80

Solar-Divicon (pumping station for the USG 0.08

collector circuit) liters 0.30

Vitocell-B 100 Tank capacity USG 79 120

liters 300 450
Heating water capacity of bottom coil USG 2.6 3.3
liters 10 12.5

Vitocell-B 300 Tank capacity USG 79 79

liters 300 300
Heating water capacity of bottom coil USG 2.9 3.9
liters 11 15

Vitocell-V 300, Tank capacity USG 53 79 120

(with indirect coil/s) liters 200 300 450
Heating water capacity of coil USG 3.2 2.9 4
liters 11.9 11 15

Copper pipe, type M Dimension 3/ ” ½” ¾” 1” 1¼” 1½”

8
Water content USG/ft. pipe
0.0083 0.013 0.027 0.045 0.068 0.095
5167 156 v3.1

37
Notes on Planning and Operation
Safety Equipment
RL Return
VL Flow
DHW
G diaphragm expansion vessel into the hot
T may arise from idle periods, i.e.
F
KW
Collector
Safety valve
Solar-Divicon
Pre-cooling vessel (see below)
Diaphragm expansion vessel
Dual-mode DHW cylinder
High limit safety cut-out (see
page 41)
Information regarding the heat transfer
medium
Heat transfer media containing glycol
can be damaged, if they are subjected
for long periods of temperatures above
170ºC / 338ºF. This can lead to the
system suffering from sludge and hard
deposits, particularly in conjunction
with other contaminants (flux and
oxidized deposits).
Therefore, after completing the
installation, thoroughly flush out the
system. After filling the system with
process medium, ensure that heat is
transferred inside the system, i.e. that
38
h Static height
T protected in respect to temperature,
A
h
B matching of the system pressure.
C For total pipework lengths shorter than
D
VL RL
E ruled out. For this reason solar heating
longer periods of stagnation are
prevented. System must be air-tight as
glycol deterioration is always worse in
presence of O2 molecules. Check the
glycol every 2 years.
Information regarding pre-cooling
vessels
Pre-cooling vessels or stratification
cylinders in solar heating systems
protect the diaphragm expansion vessel
from over heating if stagnation occurs.
The installation of such vessels is
recommended if the content of the
pipework between the collector array
Content litres Number of collectors
Vitosol SV2 Vitosol SH2 Vitosol 300-T 2m2 Vitosol 300-T 3m2
12 4 3
The solar heating system must be
pressure and discharge of liquid in
accordance with local regulations.
The collector circuit must be protected
in such a way that at the highest
possible collector temperature (= idle
temperature) no heat transfer medium
can escape from the safety valve.
This is achieved through the appropriate
sizing of the expansion vessel and
10m/32ft, we recommend the
installation of a pre-cooling vessel and
supply pipe and only the pressure relief
valve into the return pipe.
Information regarding stagnation
System idle periods, e.g. due to defects
or incorrect operation, can never be
systems must be protected according
to the current technical standards
against the potential difficulties which
systems cannot be damaged or cause
damage if idle periods occur. Collectors
and connection pipes are designed for
the maximum expected temperatures in
case of stagnation. Temperatures over
170ºC / 338ºF have a detrimental
effect on the process medium. When
designing the collector array it should
be ensured that the system can
“breathe” properly (e.g. do not route
solar pipes above the collector array).
and the expansion vessel is lower than
50% of the capacity of the correctly
sized expansion vessel. The reference
value is the total volume which
evaporates in idle conditions.
Sizing:
Capacity of the correctly sized
expansion vessel less the content of
the return line between the collector
array and the expansion vessel.
Determining the capacity of the
pre-cooling vessel:
1.5 x collector content x number of
collectors.
5167 156 v3.1
6 4
 Notes on Planning and Operation

Safety Equipment (continued)

Diaphragm expansion tank

Construction and operation

A diaphragm expansion tank is a
A A A sealed expansion vessel whose gas
space (nitrogen filling) is separated
from the liquid space (heat transfer
medium) by a diaphragm and whose
inlet pressure is subject to the system
height.
D E To safely prevent steam being
created during the operating stage,
collectors must indicate a pressure of
at least 15 psig / 1 bar in their cold
state.
The expansion tank inlet pressure is
then higher by an amount of
0.45 psig x static height (h) in ft.
B C C or 0.1 bar x static height (h) in m.
In hot conditions, the system pressure
rises by approx. 15 to 30 psig/1 to
Delivered Solar heating Under max. 2 bar.
condition system filled pressure at the
(3 bar/45 psig without highest process Maximum idle temperature of
pressure) heat effect medium temperature collectors:
Vitosol 200-F, Models SV2, SH2
Flat panel solar collector with 25 ft.2 /
Process medium Nitrogen buffer 2.3 m2 collector area.
Nitrogen filling Safety water seal, min. 3l/0.8gal Max. shutdown temperature
430°F / 221°C
Max. operating pressure
87 psig /6 bar
Specification - Viessmann expansion tank
A B Vitosol 300-T, SP3 Series
Øa Øa Vacuum tube solar collector with 22
and 32 ft.2 / 2 and 3 m2 collector
area.
Max. shutdown temperature
302°F / 150 °C
Max. operating pressure
87 psig /6 bar
b

To ensure that no heat transfer

b

medium can escape from the pressure

relief valve, the expansion tank must
be sufficiently large to accommodate
the liquid content of the collector
when steam forms (stagnation).

IMPORTANT
Expansion Content Operating Øa b Connection Weight
tank litres pressure mm mm R kg
The cold fill inlet pressure (gas space)
bar
must be adjusted on site as follows:
A 18 10 280 370 ¾” 7.5 15 psig + 0.45 psig x static height in
25 10 280 490 ¾” 9.1 ft
40 10 354 520 ¾” 9.9 1 bar + 0.1 bar x static height in m
B 50 10 409 505 1”
1 12.3 The system operating pressure must
80 10 480 566 1” 18.4 be 4.5 to 7.5 psig/0.3 to 0.5 bar
higher than the inlet pressure of the
5167 156 v3.1

diaphragm expansion tank. The

waterseal should be 0.005x the total
liquid content of the system but not
less than 3 liters.

39
Notes on Planning and Operation

Safety Equipment (continued)

Technical data for the expansion tank (continued)

The nominal capacity of the expansion Calculation example Selection table for expansion tanks,
vessel is calculated according to the Solar heating system with: subject to collector model (in
equation 2 Vitosol 200-F, type SV2 @ 1.83 litres conjunction with a 6 bar safety valve)
(V v + V 2 + z ⋅ V k) ⋅ (p e + 1) Liquid capacity: VA = 25 litres These details provide only guide values;
VN = pe − p Static head: h = 5 m a final calculation must be carried out.
st
Permissible final pressure: pe = 5.4 bar
(ü) Vitosol 200-F, model SV2
Whereby (Safety valve blow off pressure: 6 bar)
VN = nominal capacity of the Number of System Static Expansion
(V v + V 2 + z ⋅ V k) ⋅ (p e + 1) collectors capacity head tank
diaphragm expansion tank VN = p e − p st
in liters VA h (m) capacity
Vv =VA · 0.005 liters liters
Vv = safety water seal (here heat Vv =0.125 litres, selected 3 litres 2 20 5 25
transfer medium) in litres (see previoys page). 10
Vv = 0.005 · VA in litres V2 =VA · b
(min. 3 litres) V2 =3.25 litres 3 25 5 25
pst =1.5 bar + 0.1 bar/m · 5 m 10 40
VA = liquid capacity of the entire pst =2.0 bar 4 32 5 40
system (see page 42). 10
(3 + 3.25 + 2 ⋅ 1.83) ⋅ (5.4 + 1)
VN =
5.4 − 1.5 5 35 5 40
pst = nitrogen inlet pressure of
expansion vessel in bar VN =16.3 litres 10 50
pst =1 bar + 0.1 · h
h =static head of the system in Due to the possibility of steam Vitosol 200-F, model SH2
m (see drawing on page NO TAG) collecting in the solar circuit pipe, we
z = number of collectors recommend multiplying the calculated Number of System Static Expansion
Vk = collector capacity in litres value VN by a safety factor of 1.5. collectors capacity head tank
(see page 37). Select a 25 liter expansion vessel. VA h capacity
V2 = volume increase when the liters m liters
system heats up 2 20 5 25
10 40
V2 = VA · β 3 30 5 40
b =expansion quotient ( β= 0.13 10
for Viessmann heat transfer 4 35 5 40
medium from –20 to 120ºC)
pe = permissible end pressure in bar 10 50
pe =psi – 0.1 · psi 5 40 5 50
psi =safety valve blow off 10 80
pressure
Vitosol 300-T
Absorber System Static Expansion
WARNING surface capacity head tank
area VA h (m) capacity
Do not use expansion tanks that are m2 liters liters
not designed for solar heating
systems. Temperatures during 3 16 5 18
stagnation periods can reach 10
extremely high levels, which could 4 18 5 18
result in serious injuries from hot 10
system fluid discharging from 5 23 5 18
pressure relief valve.
10 25
6 25 5 25
10
WARNING
9 35 5 40
5167 156 v3.1

Do not undersize expansion tank. 10

40
 Notes on Planning and Operation
Safety Equipment (continued)
Pressure relief valve
The operating pressure of the pressure
relief valve is the maximum system
pressure +10 %.
The pressure relief valve must comply
with all local codes.
The pressure relief valve must be
matched to the output of the collector
or the collector assembly and be able to
handle their maximum output of
900w/m2.
High limit safety cut-out
The Vitosolic 200 solar control unit is
equipped with an electronic limit
thermostat which is preset in the
factory to 167ºF / 75ºC and can be
adjusted.
For systems with a sufficiently large
DHW capacity, this protection is
adequate, as the maximum operating
temperature does not exceed 23ºF /
11ºC.
An additional mechanical high limit
safety cut-out is required, if the DHW
tank capacity is less than 40 liters/m2
collector surface area.
5167 156 v3.1
IMPORTANT
When use is made of water containing
antifreeze or synthetic heat transfer
media which are miscible with water
(e.g. Viessmann heat transfer medium)
and whose boiling point is higher than
that of water, the blow off and
discharge pipes must be run to an open
container capable of accommodating
the total capacity of the collectors.
Use only pressure relief valves designed
for a maximum of 87 psig / 6 bar and
248ºF / 120ºC bearing the markings
”S” (solar) as part of the product
identification.
IMPORTANT
Solar-Divicon is equipped with a pressure
relief valve for max. 87 psig / 6 bar and
248ºF / 120ºC.
Example:
Vitosol 200-F flat collector x 4=,
approx. 7 m2 absorber surface area
DHW cylinder with 300 litres capacity
300 = 40 litres/m2,
7.5
e.g. no high limit safety cut-out
required.
41
Notes on Planning and Operation

Safety Equipment (continued)

Thermostatic mixing valve

Solar storage tank A thermostatic mixing valve is required

DHW
Thermostatic anti-scald mixing for all solar systems to prevent
valve domestic hot water temperatures higher
than 140 ºF / 60 ºC (local codes may
require different temperature settings).

Install an anti-scald mixing valve

designed for potable domestic hot
water systems.

DCW

WARNING
The domestic hot water temperature
must be limited to 140 °F / 60 °C by
installing a mixing device, e.g. a
thermostatic anti-scald mixing valve.

5167 156 v3.1

42
 Notes on Planning and Operation

Accessories

Threaded elbow Quick-acting air-vent valve (with tee) Solar manual filling pump

R1”
.

approx. 166

22

22

R ½”
38
15
160 (220)
65 220
290
40
For replenishing and raising the
For installation at the highest point of pressure.
the system.
With shut-off valve and locking ring
connection.

For the installation of the DHW tank Flexible connection pipe

temperature sensor into the tank return.
Comes as standard equipment with
Vitocell-B 100 tanks and is an
accessory with Vitocell-B 300 tanks.

1000
22

Air separator

Stainless steel corrugated pipe with

thermal insulation and compression
approx. 225

fitting connection.
Comes with thermal insulation. Set of 2
per package.
22

22

111

For installation in the supply pipe of the

solar circuit, preferably upstream of the
inlet to the DHW tank.
With automatic air-vent valve, shut-off
valve and locking ring connection.
This is not required if a Solar Divicon
model DN 20 or DN 25 is used.
5167 156 v3.1

43
System Designs
General Information
How to implement the installation
WARNING
With temperatures over 140°F /
60°C, the DHW temperature must be
limited to 140°F / 60°C by installing
a mixing device, e.g. a thermostatic
mixing valve (DHW tank accessory).
44
For our climatic zone: dual systems
In our climatic zone, solar radiation is
insufficient to cover the entire
requirements for domestic hot water or
swimming pool heating as well as space
heating by means of solar energy.
Therefore, a solar heating system for
DHW or swimming pool water heating
and/or central heating should always be
combined with another heat generator.
In dual systems, for example, an oil or
gas-fired boiler supplies the additional
heat required.
Over the following pages, we have
described methods of operation and
used design suggestions to illustrate
various installation ideas involving
different equipment specifications. A
summary is provided which lists
essential control equipment.
The temperatures stated are guide
values; other values may be set to meet
particular requirements.
The circulation pumps referred to in
these examples (standard delivery with
Solar-Divicon) are AC pumps.
DHW tank backup by the boiler is
suppressed by the Vitosolic, when the
anticipated heat requirement for DHW
heating is expected to be covered by
the solar heating system. This may
require the use of the optional
expansion boards.
When connection between the Vitosolic
and the boiler control (Vitodens
programming unit, Vitotronic 300 or
Dekamatik) is made via the KM-BUS,
the setpoint temperature for boiler
backup of DHW is reduced, stopping
the boiler from coming on.
Abbreviations used in the examples:
DCW Domestic cold water
DHW Domestic hot water
R Return
S Supply
5167 156 v3.1
 System Designs

System Design 1

Dual-mode DHW heating with Vitocell-B100 or Vitocell-B 300 DHW tanks

- with Vitosolic 200 or GL 30 control

DHW heating without solar energy DHW heating with solar energy

The top part of the DHW tank is heated
by the boiler.
The DHW tank temperature sensor
of the boiler control unit switches tank
heating circulation pump . temperature sensor
When a temperature difference higher When the preset temperature is
than the value set in control unit is exceeded, these devices switch OFF
measured between collector solar circuit circulation pump . The
temperature sensor and tank electronic temperature limit is set at the
, solar circuit factory.
circulation pump is switched ON
and the DHW tank is heated up.
The temperature in the DHW tank is
limited by the electronic limit
thermostat in control unit or by
high limit safety cut-out (if
required).

Installation diagram
2

B
1

DHW

C 4

D
28 E

F 5 S R
5
6

21

3
G H DCW

Solar collector DHW circulation Heating circuit

Solar-Divicon DHW circulation output of the boiler Oil/gas-fired boiler
5167 156 v3.1

Taps control unit or timer installed on site DHW cylinder

*1 High limit safety cut-out, see page 41.

45
System Designs

System Design 1 (continued)

Dual-mode DHW heating with Vitocell-B100 or Vitocell-B 300 DHW tanks

- with Vitosolic 200 or GL 30 control (continued)

Control equipment required

Item Description Number Part no.

Control of DHW cylinder loading by solar energy
1 Vitosolic 200 1 7134 552
or
GL 30 control 7134 450
2 Collector temperature sensor 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
3 DHW tank temperature sensor*1 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
4 Solar circuit circulation pump 1 7133 454
(standard equipment of Solar-Divicon, see page 35) or
7133 455
5 High limit safety cut-out (see page 41)*2 1 Supplied on site
Control of DHW tank loading by the boiler
6 DHW tank temperature sensor 1 Included in
standard
equipment of boiler
control unit *2
7 Circulation pump for DHW tank loading 1 DHW tank
accessory
*1Installation requires a threaded elbow (standard delivery for Vitocell-B 100, accessory for Vitocell-B 300 ).
*2Accessory with Vitodens.

WARNING
The domestic hot water temperature
must be limited to 140 °F / 60 °C by
installing a mixing device, e.g. a
thermostatic anti-scald mixing valve.

5167 156 v3.1

46

System Design 2
Dual-mode DHW heating and space heating backup with heating water storage tank
- with Vitosolic 200
DHW heating without solar energy
The upper indirect coil of the DHW tank
is heated by a boiler. The DHW tank
temperature sensor of the boiler
control unit switches circulation pump
to heat up the DHW tank.
DHW heating with solar energy
Solar circuit circulation pump is
switched ON and the DHW is heated
up, when a temperature difference
higher than the value set in control unit
is measured between collector
temperature sensor and DHW
temperature sensor . exceeded, this device switches the
The temperature in the DHW is limited
by the electronic limit thermostat in
control unit or by high limit safety
cut-out (if required).
When the preset temperature is
exceeded, these devices switch OFF
solar circuit circulation pump . collector temperature sensor is high
The electronic temperature limit is set
at the factory.
5167 156 v3.1
Space heating without solar energy
Diverter valve remains at zero volts
(setting ”AB-B”), if the differential
temperature between heating water
storage tank temperature sensor
(discharge) and space heating return
temperature sensor falls below the
value set at control unit . No flow
through the heating water storage tank
takes place.
The boiler provides heat to the heating
circuit according to the heating curve
set at the boiler control unit.
System Designs
Space heating with solar energy
Heating water storage tank circuit
circulation pump and circulation
pump for storage tank heating are
switched ON and the heating water
storage tank is heated up, when a
temperature difference higher than the
differential temperature preset in
control unit is measured between
collector temperature sensor and
storage tank temperature sensor
(re-loading) . The temperature inside
the heating water storage tank will be
limited by the electronic limit
thermostat in control unit .
When the preset temperature is
storage tank circuit circulation pump
and OFF.
Circulation pump is switched OFF
for approx. 2 minutes, roughly every
15 minutes (adjustable time), to check
whether the temperature at the
enough to change over to DHW tank
loading.
Control unit switches diverter valve
to position ”AB-A” and the space
heating return water will be channelled
into the boiler via the storage tank, if
the temperature differential between
storage tank temperature sensor
(discharge) and space heating return
temperature sensor exceeds that set
at control unit . If the temperature of
the pre-heated return water is
insufficient, the boiler re-heats the
water to the necessary flow
temperature level.
47
System Designs

System Design 2 (continued)

Installation diagram
2

Refer to Viessmann sample layout drawing #5 for

alternate layout. (contact Viessmann sales rep. for
details) A

B C

4
qE

DHW

S R

5
5

6
qP
21

9
7
qR AB

qT A B
3
qQ qW DCW
G H K

Solar collector DHW circulation Heating water storage tank

Solar-Divicon DHW circulation output of the boiler Oil/gas-fired boiler
Solar pump line control unit or timer installed on site DHW tank
Taps
5167 156 v3.1

*1High limit safety cut-out, see page 41.

48
 System Designs

System Design 2 (continued)

Dual-mode DHW heating and space heating backup with heating water storage tank
- with Vitosolic 200 (continued)

Control equipment required

Item Description Number Part no.

Control of DHW tank loading by solar energy
1 Vitosolic 200 1 7134 450
2 Collector temperature sensor 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
3 DHW tank temperature sensor*1 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
4 Solar circuit circulation pump 1 7133 454
(standard equipment of Solar-Divicon, see page 35) or
7133 455
5 High limit safety cut-out (see also page 41) 1 Supplied on site
8 Circulation pump (relayering) 1 Supplied on site
Control of DHW tank loading by the boiler
6 DHW tank temperature sensor 1 Included in
standard
equipment of the
boiler control unit
7 Circulation pump for DHW tank loading 1 DHW tank
accessory
Space heating control with solar energy
9 Return temperature sensor (heating circuit) 1 7170 965
qP Temperature sensor (storage tank), discharge 1 7170 965
qQ Temperature sensor (storage tank, re-loading) 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
qW Three-way diverter valve 1 Supplied on site
qE Solar circuit circulation pump for storage tank heating 1 Supplied on site
(part of the solar pump line, see page 35)
qR Circulation pump for storage tank heating 1 Supplied on site
qT Heat exchanger 1 Supplied on site
*1A threaded elbow (standard delivery for Vitocell-B 100, accessory for Vitocell-B 300 ) is recommended for this installation.

Note:
Heating water storage tank , circulation pump for storage tank and heat exchanger can all be replaced with an
indirect-fired storage tank, c/w internal heat exchanger coil (e.g. Vitocell-V 100).

WARNING
The domestic hot water temperature
must be limited to 140 °F / 60 °C by
installing a mixing device, e.g. a
thermostatic anti-scald mixing valve.
5167 156 v3.1

49
System Designs
System Design 3
Dual-mode DHW heating with two DHW tanks
- with Vitosolic 200
DHW heating without solar energy
DHW tank 2 is heated by the boiler. The
DHW tank thermostat with connected
tank temperature sensor of the
boiler control unit switches circulation
pump to heat up the DHW tank.
DHW circulation pump 8b (if installed)
is switched ON and circulation pump
8a
is switched OFF, so that the DHW
circulation only affects DHW tank . thermostat in control unit
50
DHW heating with solar energy
Solar circuit circulation pump is
switched ON and DHW tank 1 is heated
up, when a temperature difference
higher than the value set in control unit
is measured between collector
temperature sensor and tank
temperature sensor .
The temperature in DHW tank 1 is
limited by the electronic limit
or by
high limit safety cut-out (if
required).
When the preset temperature is
exceeded, this device switches OFF
solar circuit circulation pump . The
electronic temperature limit is set at the
factory.
Circulation pump 8a is switched ON,
when the temperature at sensor in
DHW tank 1 exceeds that at sensor
in DHW tank 2.
The DHW circulation covers both DHW
tanks. This feeds the water heated in
DHW tank 1 into DHW tank 2. This
way, DHW tank 2 is also heated by
solar energy.
DHW circulation pump 8b (if installed)
for DHW tank 2 is controlled by the
boiler control unit.
Circulation pump 8a will be switched
OFF if the temperature in DHW tank 2
rises above that in DHW tank 1.
WARNING
The domestic hot water temperature
must be limited to 140 °F / 60 °C by
installing a mixing device, e.g. a
thermostatic anti-scald mixing valve.
5167 156 v3.1
 System Designs

System Design 3 (continued)

Installation diagram (system with two DHW cylinders with indirect coils)

8a

D
E 28
8b
F
5
5 S R
DHW

DCW qP
21 2 1
6 9

7 3

DCW
G H K

Solar collector DHW circulation output of the boiler Oil/gas-fired boiler

Solar-Divicon control unit or timer installed on site DHW tank 2
Taps Heating circuit DHW tank 1
DHW circulation
5167 156 v3.1

*1High limit safety cut-out, see page 41.

51
System Designs

System Design 3 (continued)

Dual-mode DHW heating with two DHW tanks

- with Vitosolic 200 (continued)

Control equipment required

Item Description Number Part no.

Control of DHW tank 1 loading by solar energy
1 Vitosolic 200 1 7134 552
2 Collector temperature sensor 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
3 DHW tank temperature sensor*1 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
4 Solar circuit circulation pump 1 7133 454
(standard equipment of Solar-Divicon, see page 35) or
7133 455
5 High limit safety cut-out (see also page 41) 1 Supplied on site

Control of DHW tank 2 loading by the boiler

6 DHW tank temperature sensor 1 Included in
standard
equipment of boiler
control unit *2
7 Circulation pump for DHW tank loading*3 1 Accessories
DHW tank

DHW circulation changeover

8 DHW circulation pump or circulation pump (relayering) 1 Supplied on site

9 Temperature sensor tank 1 1 Included in

standard
equipment for
item 1
qP Temperature sensor tank 2 1 7170 965
*1The screw-in elbow which is available as an accessory for the DHW cylinder is recommended for installation purposes.
*2Accessory with Vitodens.
*3Part of the standard delivery with Vitodens (for types with DHW heating).

WARNING
The domestic hot water temperature
must be limited to 140 °F / 60 °C by
installing a mixing device, e.g. a
thermostatic anti-scald mixing valve.
5167 156 v3.1

52

System Design 4
Dual-mode DHW and swimming pool water heating
- with Vitosolic 200
DHW heating without solar energy
The top part of the DHW tank is heated
by the boiler.
The DHW tank temperature sensor
of the boiler control unit switches tank
heating circulation pump . value set in control unit
5167 156 v3.1
DHW heating with solar energy
Solar circuit circulation pump for DHW
heating is switched ON and the
DHW tank is heated up, when a
temperature difference higher than the
is measured
between collector temperature sensor
and DHW tank temperature
sensor . the set differential temperature for
Solar circuit circulation pump for DHW
heating is switched OFF, and solar
circuit circulation pump for swimming
pool heating is switched ON (see
”Swimming pool water heating”), if the
temperature at DHW tank temperature
sensor is so high that the actual
temperature difference falls below the
set differential temperature.
The temperature in the DHW tank is
limited by the electronic limit
thermostat in control unit or by
high limit safety cut-out (if
required).
When the preset temperature is
exceeded, these devices switch OFF
solar circuit circulation pump . The
electronic temperature limit is set at the
factory.
System Designs
Swimming pool water heating
Solar circuit circulation pump for DHW
heating is switched OFF, and solar
circuit circulation pump for
swimming pool heating is switched ON,
if the temperature at DHW tank
temperature sensor is so high, that
the temperature difference falls below
DHW heating.
The temperature at collector
temperature sensor must then be
higher by the temperature difference for
swimming pool water heating set in
control unit than the temperature at
temperature sensor (swimming pool)
.
Swimming pool water limit thermostat
(max. limit) switches circulation
pump OFF when the desired set
water temperature has been reached.
Circulation pump is switched OFF
for approx. 2 minutes roughly every
15 minutes (adjustable time), to check
whether the temperature at the
collector temperature sensor is high
enough to change over to DHW tank
loading.
When the solar energy is insufficient to
heat the swimming pool water, the
heating of the swimming pool water will
be taken over by the oil/gas-fired boiler
via temperature sensor in heat
exchanger 2.
The filter time and any boiler backup
should fall outside those times when
heating by solar energy can be
expected.
53
System Designs

System Design 4 (continued)

Installation diagram
2

B C

4 qP

DHW

E
F 28
S R
G
5

5
6

21 8

H K DCW
qT

M qE qQ N 9
qR
2 1
L

Solar collector DHW circulation output of the boiler Swimming pool

Solar-Divicon control unit or timer installed on site Heat exchanger 2
Solar pump line Heating circuit Heat exchanger 1
Taps Oil/gas-fired boiler Filter system with pump
5167 156 v3.1

DHW circulation Dual-mode DHW tank

*1High limit safety cut-out, see page 41.

54
 System Designs

System Design 4 (continued)

Dual-mode DHW and swimming pool water heating

- with Vitosolic 200 (continued)

Control equipment required

Item Description Number Part no.

Control of DHW tank loading by solar energy
1 Vitosolic 200 1 7134 552
2 Collector temperature sensor 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
3 DHW tank temperature sensor*1 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
4 Circulation pump for the solar circuit 1 7133 454
(standard equipment of Solar-Divicon, see page 35) or
7133 455
5 High limit safety cut-out (see also page 41) 1 Supplied on site
8 Circulation pump 1 Supplied on site

Control of DHW tank loading by the boiler

6 DHW tank temperature sensor 1 Included in
standard
equipment of the
boiler control unit
7 Circulation pump for DHW tank loading 1 DHW tank
accessory

Control of swimming pool heating by solar energy

9 Temperature sensor (swimming pool) 1 Included in
standard
equipment for
item 1
qP Solar circuit circulation pump for swimming pool heating 1 Supplied on site
(part of the solar pump line, see page 35)
qQ Swimming pool limit thermostat (max. limit) 1 Supplied on site
Control of swimming pool heating by the boiler
qE Temperature sensor (heat exchanger 2) 1 7170 965
qR Limit thermostat (max. limit) 1 Supplied on site
qT Circulation pump for swimming pool water heating 1 Supplied on site
*1A threaded elbow (standard delivery for Vitocell-B 100, accessory for Vitocell-B 300) is recommended for this installation.

WARNING
The domestic hot water temperature
must be limited to 140 °F / 60 °C by
installing a mixing device, e.g. a
thermostatic anti-scald mixing valve.
5167 156 v3.1

55
System Designs

System Design Extensions

Bypass circuit

To improve the start-up characteristics

of the system or for systems with
several collector arrays, operation with
a bypass circuit is feasible.

Version 1 - bypass circuit with collector temperature sensor and bypass sensor

The Vitosolic 200 records the collector
temperature via the collector
temperature sensor. If the set
temperature difference between the
collector temperature sensor and the
cylinder sensor is exceeded, the bypass temperature sensor is exceeded by 2.5
pump is switched ON. K the solar circuit pump is switched ON
If the temperature difference between and the bypass pump is switched OFF.
the bypass sensor and the cylinder

S1
Note
The pump of the Solar-Divicon is used
as the bypass pump and the pump of
the solar circuit pump line is used as
the solar circuit pump.

R5 R1
R1 Solar circuit pump
R3 Bypass pump
S3 S1 Collector temperature sensor
S3 Bypass sensor
VL RL

Version 2 - bypass circuit with solar cell (e.g. with an external heat exchanger)

For this system version, the solar circuit The solar circuit pump will be switched The pump will be switched OFF, if the
pump takes on this additional function. ON, if the set irradiation threshold is irradiation falls below the set switching
The Vitosolic 200 records the solar exceeded. threshold (shutdown delay approx.
intensity via the solar cell. 2 min).

CS

R1
CS Solar cell
S1 R1 Solar circuit pump
S1 Collector temperature sensor
VL RL
5167 156 v3.1

56
 System Designs

System Design Extensions (continued)

System with energy-saving mode

Version 3 - bypass circuit with solar cell and collector temperature sensor

The Vitosolic 200 records the solar
intensity via the solar cell.
If the set irradiation threshold is
exceeded, the bypass pump is switched
ON. The bypass pump is switched OFF
and the solar circuit pump will be
switched ON, if the set temperature
difference between the collector
temperature sensor and cylinder
temperature sensor is exceeded.
The bypass pump will also be switched
OFF if the irradiation falls below the set
switching threshold (shutdown delay
approx. 2.5 min).

Note
CS
The pump of the Solar-Divicon is used
as the bypass pump and the pump of
the solar circuit pump line is used as
the solar circuit pump.

R5 R1
CS Solar cell
S1 R1 Solar circuit pump
R5 Bypass pump
VL RL S1 Collector temperature sensor
5167 156 v3.1

57
Appendix

Calculation Example Based on the Viessmann “ESOP” Program

Solar heating system with dual-coil DHW tank

2 x Vitosol 200-F

200 litres/day
45 °C
Azimuth: 0°
Inclination: 45°

300 litres

11 kW

Results of simulation over a one-year period

DHW solar fraction 59.8 %

System efficiency 36.2 %
Heat yield of collector circuit 2 214 kWh
Irradiation on reference surface 6.12 MWh
Heat requirement for DHW heating 2 975 kWh
Natural gas savings 274 m3
CO2 emissions avoided 520 kg
5167 156 v3.1

58
 Appendix

Calculation Example Based on the Viessmann “ESOP” Program (continued)

Solar heating system with dual-coil DHW tank (continued)

Coverage 59.8%

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Period: 1.1. – 31.12.

System parameters
Collector circuit details
2 collectors Model: Vitosol 200-F
Total surface area, gross: 5.42 m2 Net: 4.99 m2
Angle of inclination: 45º Azimuth: 0º

DHW cylinder with two indirect coils

Capacity: 300 l Model: Vitocell-B 100 (300 litres)

DHW consumer
Type: Detached house 200 l per day at 45 ºC set temperature, 365 days

Cold water
February: 8 ºC August: 12 ºC

Weather statistics
A location at 49º latitude Total annual global radiation: 1101.08 kWh/m2
5167 156 v3.1

59
Appendix
Glossary
Absorber
Device contained inside a solar collector
for absorbing radiation energy and
transferring this as heat to a liquid.
Absorption
Absorption of radiation.
Condenser
Device in which vapour is precipitated
as liquid.
Convection
Transfer of heat by a flowing medium.
Convection creates energy losses
caused by a difference in temperature,
e.g. between the glass plate of the
collector and the hot absorber.
Dispersion
Interaction of radiation with matter by
which the radiation direction is altered;
total energy and wavelength remain
unchanged.
Efficiency
The efficiency of a solar collector is the
input/output ratio of the collector.
Relevant variables are, for example, the
ambient and absorber temperatures.
Emission
Radiation of beams, e.g. light or
particles.
Evacuation
Evacuating air from a container. This
reduces the air pressure and creates a
vacuum.
60
Heat loss coefficients k1 and k2
k1 is the constant component of the
heat loss of a collector and is usually
designated as k value (unit: W/(m2 · K)).
k2 is the quadratic component of the
temperature-dependent heat loss
(unit: W/(m2 · K2)).
Any informative statement about the
heat losses of a collector requires both
values to be quoted.
Heat pipe
Closed, capillary container which
contains a small quantity of highly
volatile liquid.
Heat transfer medium
Fluid which picks up the useful heat in
the absorber of the collector and
transfers it to a user (heat exchanger).
Photovoltaic effect
Gaining electrical energy from solar
energy.
Radiation energy
Quantity of energy transmitted by
radiation.
Radiation level (irradiation)
Radiation power, impacting per unit
surface, expressed in W/m2, or
Btu/h/ft.2.
Selective surface
The absorber in the solar collector has
been given a highly selective coating to
improve its efficiency. This specially
applied coating enables the absorption
to be maintained at a very high level for
the incident sunlight spectrum
(approx.94 %). The emission of the
long-wave heat radiation is largely
avoided.
The high-selectivity black chromium
coating is very durable.
Stagnation
Condition of a collector when no heat is
being conducted away by the heat
transfer medium.
Vacuum
A space devoid of air.
5167 156 v3.1
 5167 156 v3.1

61
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5167 156 v3.1
 5167 156 v3.1

63

Viessmann Manufacturing Company (U.S.) Inc.
45 Access Road
Warwick, Rhode Island • 02886 • USA
Tel. (401) 732-0667 • Fax (401) 732-0590
www.viessmann-us.com • info@viessmann-us.com
64
Printed on environmentally friendly
(recycled and recyclable) paper.
Technical information subject to change without notice.
5167 156 v3.1
Viessmann Manufacturing Company Inc.
750 McMurray Road
Waterloo, Ontario • N2V 2G5 • Canada
Tel. (519) 885-6300 • Fax (519) 885-0887
www.viessmann.ca • info@viessmann.ca