UFC 3-440-01
14 June 2002
Figure 3-6. Possible Array Configurations and Area
3-4.2
Storage Sub-System
3-4.2.1
Storage Tank Size. At the system layout stage, the storage tank volume
and dimensions have a major impact on the design and location of the equipment room.
Selection or specification of the storage tank requires first determining the appropriate
volume of the tank. The widely accepted practice for service water heating applications
is to provide a storage tank volume of 1.5 to 2 gals per square foot (61.1 to 81.5 L per
square meter) of collector area. Storage systems larger than this do not significantly
increase the performance of the solar system, and the additional costs associated with
larger storage are not justified. Storage systems smaller than this size can decrease
system performance. The lower performance is due to relatively high storage
temperatures, resulting in lower solar collector efficiencies. Within these guidelines, the
exact size of the storage tank is not critical to system performance and should be based
upon available standard sizes. To provide proper stratification and to meet space
requirements, vertical storage tanks are preferred. As tank size increases, space
considerations and floor area become increasingly critical. When it becomes apparent
that a single vertical tank is not possible, a horizontal tank or a series of vertical tanks
will be necessary.
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