| 摘要 |
A solar collector comprises a length of serpentine copper tubing and a length of sealed silicone tubing, where the silicone tubing is inserted internally along the entire length of the copper tubing. An annulus is created between the inside of the copper tubing and the outside of the silicone tubing through which water can flow. The silicone tubing is compressible and is thus able to absorb an increase in water volume due to freezing. In this way, the compressible silicone tubing compensates for the expansion of the water when freezing and protects the copper tubing from damage, such as rupture or bursting. Preferably, as the frozen water starts to thaw out, the air compressed inside the sealed silicone tubing enables the silicone tubing to return to its original shape. The silicone tubing may be held in place inside the copper tubing by a restraining system comprising a cylindrical body and fins. In use, the tubing arrangement allows water to freeze and thaw out without causing damage to the solar collector's copper tubing. |
