Technical Series

Solar technology

Reducing heating costs with solar energy

Solar energy is environmentally
responsible, free and effective.
Particularly if you have a solar
heating system with highly efficient
collectors and perfectly matched
components made by Viessmann.

2
Index

1 Solar framework Page 4

1.1 Available energy

1.2 Heat from the sun
1.3 Irradiated energy
1.4 Influence of alignment,
inclination and shade on the
energy yield
1.5 Overall system optimisation

2 Sizing solar heating systems Page 8

2.1 Collector efficiency

2.2 Solar coverage
2.3 Influence of various parameters
on solar coverage

3 Calculation examples for DHW

heating in a detached house Page 10

4 Design and function of

Viessmann solar panels Page 12

5 Selection and installation

options for different types of
collector Page 13

6 Viessmann system technology:

saving costs and installation
time Page 14

6.1 Collectors
6.2 DHW cylinders for solar heating
systems
6.3 System components

7 Solar heating systems for DHW

heating Page 20

8 Integrating solar collectors into

heating systems Page 21

9 Solar technology in a new light:

collectors as design features Page 22

3
 1 Solar framework

We have been using the sun’s heat

since time immemorial. In summer,
it heats our buildings directly, whilst
in winter we make use of stored
solar energy in the form of wood,
coal, oil and gas, to provide heat for
our buildings and domestic hot
water.

To protect fuel reserves accumulated

over millions of years, the heating
industry has committed itself to
finding more responsible ways of
handling these precious resources.

One rational way of achieving this

aim is to make direct use of solar
energy by means of solar panels.
Thanks to the use of highly
sophisticated collectors and a
perfectly matched overall system, the
economic use of solar energy
is not just a vision for the future, but
a reality for today. 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.

1.1 Available energy

In Germany, on average
1000 kWh/m2 are irradiated, which
corresponds to roughly 100 litres fuel
oil or 100 m3 natural gas.

The useful energy which a collector

can absorb depends on several
factors. The correct estimation of the
demand to be covered and the
matching size of the system are
crucial factors.
The total amount of available solar
energy, too, is relevant: in Germany,
the available annual irradiation
level lies between 900 and
1300 kWh/(m2 p.a.) (Fig. 1).
Collector type as well as inclination
and orientation also play a vital role.
If the solar installation is to be
operated economically, careful
dimensioning of the system
components is essential.
1300 1250 1200
Global radiation
Fig. 1: Annual global radiation
In detached houses and two-family
homes, correctly designed solar
collector systems with matching
components can save between
50 and 60 % of the annual energy
requirement for domestic hot water.
In summer, additional energy may
not be required at all.
1150 1100 1050 1000 950 900
kWh/(m2 p.a.)
For the rest of the year, the solar
DHW heating is supplemented by
a second, independent heat source,
usually an oil or gas fired low
temperature boiler or, better still, by
a condensing boiler. Solar panels are
not only suitable for DHW heating,
but also as backup for your central
heating.

4
 Solar framework

1.2 Heat from the sun

C
Approx. 1/3 of Germany’s total
energy consumption is expended
on heating buildings. Energy-
D
conscious construction and, in
particular, economical heating
systems, can substantially reduce
B VL
this requirement. This then
K
contributes to the preservation
of valuable energy resources and H
to the protection of the earth’s
atmosphere. A

Substantial savings potential is E

offered by DHW heating. In our
latitudes, solar panels combined G
with a central DHW cylinder
represent an interesting alternative F
to boiler operation, especially during
the summer months.
RL

1.3 Irradiated energy

H
Solar radiation is an energy force
radiated in all directions, equally, by A Diffused radiation F Absorber heat
the sun. Of that energy, an output of B Direct solar radiation radiation
1.36kW/m2, called the solar constant, C Wind, rain, snow, G Glass cover heat
hits the outer earth’s atmosphere. convection radiation
This solar radiation is reduced D Convection losses H Useful collector output
(Fig. 2) through reflection, dispersion E Thermal conduction losses K Reflection
and absorption in dust particles and
gas molecules. The portion of
radiation which passes unimpeded Fig. 2: Utilisation of solar radiation in the collector
through the atmosphere and strikes
the earth’s surface directly is known
as direct radiation.

That part of the solar radiation 6000

which is reflected and/or absorbed Global radiation
by dust particles and gas molecules, Direct radiation
5000
irradiated back and strikes the earth’s
Diffused radiation
surface indirectly is known as
diffused radiation. 4000
Solar radiation [Wh/(m2 • d)]

The sum total of all direct and

3000
diffused solar radiation (Fig. 3) is
called global radiation Eg. The global
radiation under optimum conditions 2000
(clear, cloudless sky at midday)
amounts to a max. of 1000 W/m2.
1000
With solar panels, as much as 75%
of this global radiation can be
utilised, depending on the type 0
of collector and the system size. Jan. Feb. March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.

Fig. 3: Irradiated daily energy values over a 12 month period

5
 Solar framework

1.4 Influence of alignment,

inclination and shade on the energy

+170°

-170°
Nor
North
th

+16

0°
yield Annual

-16
+1

0°
irradiation level

0°

-15
50
in %

+1

°
40
°
In Germany, the solar heating system

40
+1 ° 10°

-1
30

°
provides the highest yield over an 30 30
° -1
annual average when facing south +1
20 0° 40 20°
° -12
with an inclination of approx. 30 to +11 °
50
45 degrees to the horizontal plane. 0° -110 60 30°
However, the installation of a solar +100° -100° 70 40°
heating system is still viable even 80
West
est 10° 20° 30° 40° 50° 60° 70° 80° 90° East
when the installation deviates quite 90 50°
significantly from the above (south- +80° 95
60°
westerly to south-easterly alignment, -70 100
° °
25 to 70 degrees inclination) (Fig. 4). +70 70°
-60
0° °
+6 -5
A lower inclination is more 80°
0° 0°
favourable if the collector surface +5

-4
0°

90°

0°
cannot be pointed south. A solar

-30
+4

0°

collector system with a 30 degree -20° Angle of

°
+3

-10°
+20

+10°

South
outh inclination
inclination and an alignment of
45 degrees south-west still achieves : example: 30°; 45° south-west; ≈ 95%
almost 95% of its optimum yield.
Even with an east or west alignment,
Fig. 4: Influence of alignment, inclination and shade on the irradiated energy
you can still expect up to 85% with
a roof slope between 25 and 40
degrees.

A steeply raked collector surface Angle of inclination α

offers the advantage of a balanced
energy provision all the year round.
On the other hand, an angle of
inclination less than 20 degrees
should be avoided, otherwise the
collector will become too
contaminated.
The angle of inclination α is the
angle between the horizontal and the
solar collector (Fig. 5). For pitched α
roof installations, the angle of α
inclination is determined by the
slope of the roof. The largest amount
of energy can be captured by the α
collector’s absorber, when the
collector plane is aligned at right
angles to the irradiation of the sun. Fig. 5: Collector orientation with angle of
inclination α

Angle of azimuth
N
The angle of azimuth (Fig. 6)
describes the deviation of the
collector plane from the south; with
the collector plane aligned to the l
leve
ctor
south, the angle of azimuth = 0°. Colle
W 90° 90° O
Because solar irradiation is at its
most intensive at midday, the 75° 75°
collector plane should be oriented ° 60
°
60
as closely as possible to the south.
°

45
45

However, deviations from south up

30
30

15°
15°

0°
°

to 45° south-east or south-west are S

also acceptable. Higher deviations
can be compensated through slightly Angle of azimuth
larger collector areas.

Fig. 6: Example – angle of azimuth 15° east

6
 Solar framework

1.5 Overall system optimisation

A high-quality solar panel alone,

cannot guarantee the optimum
operation of a solar installation.
This depends more on the system
solution as a whole (Fig. 7).

Viessmann supplies all the

components required for a solar
heating system:

– a control unit that is tailored to the

individual solar heating system,

– a DHW cylinder incorporating a

solar heat exchanger low inside
the cylinder,

– design details aimed at achieving

fast-responding control and
therefore maximum yields from
the solar heating system.

In detached houses and two-family

homes, correctly designed solar
heating systems with matching
system components can save
between 50 and 60% of the annual
energy requirement for domestic hot
water.

Fig. 7: Solar heating system comprising matching components

Collector
temperature
sensor
Flexible
connection pipe

Air vent valve

Solar
collector
Solar
controller
Air separator

Solar
Divicon

Drip tray

Cylinder temperature Expansion vessel

sensor

Dual-mode
DHW cylinder

Fill valve Manual solar filling pump

Fig. 8: Components of a solar heating system

7
 2 Sizing solar heating systems

2.1 Collector efficiency

Collector Optical Heat loss coefficient Gross area
Some of the solar radiation which type efficiency k1 [W/(m2 · K)] k2 [W/(m2 · K)] [m2 ]
hits the collectors is ”lost” through η0 [%]*
reflection off the glass pane and Vitosol 100
through absorption (Fig. 2). The – type s/w 2.5 84 3.36 0.013 2.71
optical efficiency level η0 takes these – type 5 DI 84 4.16 0.0073 5.25
losses, and those created during the Vitosol 200 84 1.75 0.008 1.50 / 2.94 / 4.38
transfer of energy into the process Vitosol 250 77.5 1.476 0.0075 1.67
medium, into consideration. Vitosol 300 82.5 1.19 0.009 2.94 / 4.38
The optical efficiency level is the ∗η relative to:
0
maximum of the curve, when the – aperture area for Vitosol 100 and 250
difference between the collector – absorber area for Vitosol 200 and 300
and the ambient temperature is
zero, and the collector loses no Table 1: Comparative values for optical efficiency and thermal loss coefficient
energy to the environment.

When collectors heat up, they

transfer energy to the ambience Collector area
through thermal conduction,
thermal radiation and convection Absorber area
(air movement). These losses are Aperture size
allowed for by the thermal loss (solar active surface area)
coefficients k1 and k2 (Table 1). They
are subject to the temperature
differential ∆ϑ between the absorber
and the ambience. Fig. 9: Collector area details

The thermal loss coefficient and

0.9
optical efficiency lead to the collector Vitosol 200
efficiency curve, which can be
calculated in accordance with the 0.8
following formula
η = η0 – k1 · (∆ϑ / Eg) – k2 · (∆ϑ2 / Eg) 0.7
I
Vitosol 300
(Fig. 10).
0.6
II

Information on the collector surfaces 0.5

III IV Vitosol 250

Three sets of collector surface details 0.4

are specified in the collector
datasheets (Fig. 9).
0.3
For most subsidy programs, the
Vitosol 100
gross surface area (length x width 0.2
of external dimensions) is decisive
Efficiency

when applying for subsidies. 0.1

The aperture area (opening) defines

the effective collector area necessary 0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
for sizing the system.
Temperature difference between environment and average
collector temperature [K]
The absorber area denotes the
selectively coated area which is I Solar heating system for DHW with low coverage
effective with regard to radiation, II Solar heating system for DHW with higher coverage
subject to installation location and III Solar heating system for DHW and central heating backup
collector design. It is of little use IV Solar heating system for process heat / solar air conditioning
when comparing solar panels.
Fig. 10: Collector efficiency levels

8
 Sizing solar heating systems

Selection of a suitable collector type 10

Vitosol 100
60%
Various factors must be considered
8
at the planning stage for the
50%
selection of the right type of
collector. These are: the availability of 6
40%
space, installation conditions, other

Aperture [m2]
framework conditions (e.g. long 4
periods out of use during school
holidays), and the temperature 2
differential between the average
collector temperature and the 0
outside air. This decision will 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400
influence the collector efficiency. DHW consumption [l/d]
The higher the collector operating
temperature, the higher its output 10
Vitosol 200, 250 and 300
and therefore the yield of vacuum
tube collectors (Fig. 10). 8

60%
6
2.2 Solar coverage
50%
4
Aperture [m2]

The solar coverage indicates what

percentage of the energy required 40%
2
annually can be covered by the solar
heating system.
0
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400
The higher the selected solar
coverage, the more conventional DHW consumption [l/d]
energy is saved. This causes excess
heat in summer and generally lower Fig. 11: Solar cover from Vitosol collectors
average collector efficiency.

Fig. 11 indicates the realistic cover

which can be achieved with various
types of collector, relative to: Reference system 61
– roofs facing south, 100 litre/day 74
– roof pitch of 45° and 300 litre/day 51
– DHW standby temperature of 400 litre/day 43
45 °C.
Collector inclination 30° 60
Collector inclination 60° 59
2.3 Influence of various parameters Fixed orientation west 50
on solar coverage Fixed orientation south-west 59
Vacuum tubes* 71
The bars in Fig. 12 indicate the Hanover 53
coverage to be expected for
Freiburg 68
deviations from the reference
system. Regarding the effects of 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
system orientation, see also Fig. 4.
Solar cover for DHW heating [%]
* With comparable aperture

Fig. 12: Influence of various parameters on the solar coverage (calculated with the latest ESOP
software, version 2.0)

Reference system:
– meteorological records for Würzburg
– 4 person household with a DHW consumption of 200 litres/day, 45 °C
– 2 Vitosol 100 collectors, type s/w 2.5
– 45 degree roof pitch, roof oriented towards south
– dual-mode DHW cylinder, 300 litres capacity

9
 3 Calculation examples for DHW
heating in a detached house

System details
Application Required aperture area A
Vitosol Vitosol Vitosol
– Detached house in Würzburg 100 200/250*1 300
– Roof pitch 45 degrees
– Orientation south DHW heating
– Number of occupants 4; medium (coverage 60%)
demand for domestic hot water Detached/two-family house m2/person 1.2 – 1.5 0.8 – 1.0 0.8 – 1.0
– DHW temperature: ϑW = 45 °C Apartment block m2/person 0.8 – 1.1 0.6 – 0.8 0.6 – 0.8
Cold water temperature: ϑK = 10 °C
Heating a domestic dwelling m2/m2 Calculate guide values using
– During bad weather and outside
living space the ESOP simulation program
the solar heating times, a
Viessmann oil or gas fired boiler Indoor swimming pool*2
delivers the residual heat required (during April to September)
for DHW heating with cover m2/m2 pool surface area 0.40 0.30 0.30
– Collector type: 2 Vitosol 100 with without cover m2/m2 pool surface area 0.50 0.40 0.40
a total aperture area of 5 m2
Open air swimming pool*3
(during April to September)
DHW demand with cover m2/m2 pool surface area 0.70 0.50 0.50
without cover m2/m2 pool surface area 0.90 0.70 0.70
Selected DHW demand according to *1 Increase sizing of aperture by 20% for wall mounted collectors
VDI 2067, DHW temperature: 45 °C *2 Swimming pool reference temperature 24 °C, assumed rate of cooling 0.5 K/day
*3 Swimming pool reference temperature 22 °C, assumed rate of cooling 1 K/day
VP = 50 litres/(day · person)
Table 3: Required aperture (data based on meteorological records for Würzburg)
For four occupants, this results in a
DHW demand of 200 litres per day.

Cylinder capacity Aperture area

DHW demand Vp
[litres/(d · pers.)]
The total DHW cylinder capacity For practical purposes, the estimates
DHW temperature 45 °C
(solar calorifier capacity + standby in Table 3, based on fixed
capacity) should be sized on the meteorological conditions, are
In domestic dwellings
basis of 1.5 to 2 times the daily sufficiently accurate. For an overview
High demand 60 to 100 demand. Given the selected DHW of the solar coverage for DHW
Average demand 30 to 60 temperature inside the DHW cylinder heating, a calculation using the
of ϑcyl = 60 °C and twice the daily ESOP software is recommended,
Basic demand 15 to 30 demand: incorporating user habits. The
calculated coverage should lie
In hotels, B&Bs, 2 · VP · P · (ϑW – ϑK) between 50 and 60%.
residential homes*
Vcyl min = –––––––––––––––––––
Rooms with ϑcyl – ϑK
bath and shower 170 to 260 ESOP solar software
Rooms with bath 135 to 200
2 · 50 · 4 · (45 – 10) Figures 13 and 14 indicate the
Rooms with shower 75 to 135 = ––––––––––––––––––– calculation results for the
Residential homes, 60 – 10 aforementioned detached house in
guest houses 40 to 75 Würzburg – these were obtained
using ESOP, the software for solar
* for larger systems we would recommend = 280 litres heating systems. ESOP calculates
measuring the DHW consumption prior to the necessary absorber surface area
sizing the system
according to freely selectable inputs,
In this case, we would recommend simulates the system characteristics
Table 2: DHW demand according to VDI 2067 the DHW cylinders Vitocell-B 100 or and provides statements about the
Vitocell-B 300 with 300 litres solar coverage, fuel savings and the
capacity. reduction of emissions.

10
 Calculation examples for DHW
heating in a detached house

Given the above system conditions,

100
an annual average coverage of DHW
heating by solar energy of approx. 89
86 86 86
60% results. During the summer 83
months, the DHW may only need 80 75
a little backup heating.
62
60 59
Saving electricity with solar heating
Solar coverage [%]
systems 41
40
You can save even more energy, by 29
running your washing machine or 24 24
dishwasher with solar-heated water. 20
Washing machines and dishwashers
use most of their power requirement
for heating water. If the solar heating
0
system largely provides this capacity,
a household of four can reduce their
Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec.
electricity bills by at least another
€ 50 p.a..
Fig. 13: Solar cover for DHW heating of a detached house

Subsidies, grants and approvals

Information about current subsidies

and grants [in Germany] can be
checked under www.viessmann.com.

Permits for the installation of solar 1000

heating systems are not universally w/o solar system
the same. Your local planning office
with solar system
will be able to advise you about 800
whether solar heating systems need
planning permission.
600
Emissions [kg/p.a.]

400

200

0
CO2 SO2 NOx CO Dust

Fig. 14: Emissions

11
 4 Design and function of Viessmann
solar panels

Viessmann solar panels – something

for everyone

The Vitosol solar range (Fig. 15)

offers the right solution for almost
every need and demand:

– Vitosol 100 flat panel collectors

excel with their attractive
cost:benefit ratio. Vitosol 100 are
offered in two sizes, 2.5 and
4.76 m2. The 2.5 m2 panels can be
supplied for horizontal or vertical
orientation. Vitosol 100, type 5DI
(4.76 m2) (Fig. 16) is a special flat
panel collector for integration into
a pitched roof.

– Vitosol 200 and Vitosol 250 are

direct flow high-performance
vacuum tube collectors, that are
ideal for installation in any location.

– Vitosol 300 is a vacuum tube

collector that operates according to
the heat pipe principle, providing
dry connection and integral Fig. 15: Viessmann Vitosol solar collector range
overheating protection.

Benefits of Viessmann solar panels

In spite of their different designs, all
four collector types offer common
benefits.
All are made from high-grade
materials, such as stainless steel,
aluminium, copper and stabilised
special solar glass. These improve
operational reliability and service
life substantially. The stability and
resistance of all of these collector
types have been verified by the
quality test of the SPF Institute in
Rapperswil.
The high levels of effectiveness of
these collectors is achieved by
absorbers utilising a Sol-titanium
coating, integrated pipes and highly
efficient thermal insulation.
The evacuated glass pipes of Vitosol
200, 250 and 300 additionally reduce
thermal losses. A special plug-in
system has been developed to
facilitate easy pipe connection
between individual Viessmann solar
collectors.
This avoids the need for any
additional pipework and extensive
thermal insulation, thus significantly
reducing assembly times. Solar flow
and return are mounted on one side
for easy installation; routing one pipe
above and one below the roof cover
is not required.
Fig. 16: Flat panel collector Vitosol 100, type 5DI
The selection of recyclable materials
and a design which makes
dismantling easy, helps Viessmann
solar collectors meet the
requirements set for the ”Blue
Angel” certificate of environmental
excellence (RAL-UZ 73).

12
 5 Selection and installation options
for different types of collector

Vitosol 100, type 2.5 s and w

Vitosol 100 flat panel collectors with

a 2.5 m2 aperture are offered as
vertical or horizontal versions.
Both are suitable for installation on B
pitched roofs. The selection of
method of installation, installation
on top of roof coverings or roof A
integration, are influenced by the
respective building conditions
(Fig. 17). In new builds, for example,
roof integration is preferable.

Vitosol 100, type 5DI

F
Vitosol 100, type 5DI large area flat
panel collectors with 4.92 m2 C
aperture are offered for integration
into pitched tiled roofs. D

Vitosol 200

Vitosol 200 vacuum tube collectors

can provide a high solar gain
because of their direct flow principle, E
so you can install them anywhere.
These collectors are especially Installation location Collector type
suitable for installation on flat roofs
or on the walls of buildings, but Pitched roofs A Vitosol 100, type s
equally suit installation on top of Vitosol 100, type 5DI (only roof integration)
pitched roofs. Vitosol 200
Vitosol 250
Vitosol 300
Vitosol 250 B Vitosol 100, type w
Vitosol 200
Vitosol 250 vacuum tube collectors Vitosol 250
are direct flow high-performance
collectors, ideally suited to Flat roofs C Vitosol 200
installation anywhere around the Vitosol 250
building. They are suitable for Vitosol 100, type w
D
installation on pitched and flat roofs, Vitosol 300
as well as on walls.
Freestanding E Vitosol 100, type w*1
installation Vitosol 200
Vitosol 300 Vitosol 250
Vitosol 300
Vitosol 300 vacuum tube collectors
are based on the heat pipe principle. Walls / balcony rails / Vitosol 200
F
For that reason, they must be balustrades*2 Vitosol 250
installed with a slope of at least 25°. (For this type of installation, we
One of their characteristic features is recommend increasing the
their integral overheating protection. absorber surface /
aperture surface by 20%).
*1) not recommended for dusty ground
*2) 20% larger than for alternative installation methods

Fig. 17: Installation options for various types of collector

13
 6 Viessmann system technology:
saving costs and installation time

6.1 Collectors

Vitosol 100
Flat panel collector

Flat panel collectors are ideal for

domestic hot water and heating
swimming pool water.

Vitosol 100 flat panel collectors

(Fig. 18) comprise an absorber with
Sol-titanium coating, which ensures
the high level of collector efficiency.
A meandering copper tube is
connected to the absorber and is
surrounded by the process medium.
The process medium channels the
absorber heat through the copper
pipe. The absorber is surrounded by
a highly insulated collector housing
which minimises collector heat
losses.
The collector cover is made from a
solar glass pane whose low ferrous
content reduces reflection losses.
This solar glass is 4 mm thick, Fig. 18: Vitosol 100 flat panel collector
making it particularly weather-
resistant. The solar glass pane and
collector frame are connected by a
deep endless seal. Rain or melt water
cannot penetrate into the lower
collector section.

With its individual colours and

attractive design, Vitovolt 100 offers
new opportunities to colour
coordinate roof and solar panels. The
new edge trims particularly help to
create a harmonious transition from
solar panel to roof cover. The edge
trims are available as accessory for
roof integration and installation on
top of roofs. The collector frames and
the edge trims are supplied as
standard in a brown finish (Fig. 19).
Fig. 19: Vitosol 100 with a total aperture of 2.5 m2 Fig. 20: Viessmann plug-in system
Upon request, frame and edge trim
can be supplied in all other RAL
colours, enabling the system to be
matched to the roof colour. That way,
the solar panel becomes an integral
part of the roof design (see the
photograph on the title page).

14
 Viessmann system technology:
saving costs and installation time

Vitosol 200
Vacuum tube collector

Vacuum tube collectors are used

for domestic hot water, heating
swimming pool water and for central
heating backup.

Vitosol 200 (Fig. 21 and 22) comprise

highly evacuated solar glass tubes.
Heat losses are so low that
Vitosol 200 collectors provide energy
for DHW heating or central heating,
even at low outside temperatures.
Absorbers with a Sol-titanium
coating are integrated into all
vacuum tubes. A coaxial heat
exchanger pipe, through which the
process medium flows, is connected
to the absorber panel.

Both coaxial pipe connectors

terminate in the header and manifold
pipe in the thermally insulated
collector head section (Fig. 23).
Fig. 21: Vitosol 200 vacuum tube collector
Vitosol 200 vacuum tube collectors
are particularly suitable for
installation on flat roofs or on walls.
They can also be installed
longitudinally on pitched roofs,
i.e. with the head section on the
collector side.

The optimum absorber orientation

can be adjusted by turning the
vacuum tubes around their own
axis. Deviations from south can
be partially compensated by the
rotation of the vacuum tubes. The
angle is limited to 25° to prevent
the absorbers casting shadows
over each other.

Fig. 22: Vitosol 200, type D10 and D20 Fig. 23: Vitosol 200, type D10 and D20

15
 Viessmann system technology:
saving costs and installation time

Vitosol 250
Vacuum tube collector

Vacuum tube collectors are used

for domestic hot water, heating
swimming pool water and for central
heating backup.

Vitosol 250 (Fig. 24) is a direct flow

high-performance collector, ideally
suited to installation anywhere
around the building.

The vacuum tube is the special

feature of the new Vitosol 250. It is
made completely from glass and
retains its vacuum reliably and
permanently. Tubes in Vitosol 200
and 300 can be individually replaced
(Fig. 26).

Vitosol 250 is delivered in a standard

format comprising 20 fitted tubes
(Fig. 25). Flow and return pipes are
integrated into the head section.
Along with the proven Viessmann Fig. 24: Vitosol 250 vacuum tube collector
assembly system, this ensures easy
installation.

Fig. 25: Vitosol 250 Fig. 26: Vitosol 250 – tubes can be replaced
individually

16
 Viessmann system technology:
saving costs and installation time

Vitosol 300
Heat pipe vacuum tube collector

Vacuum tube collectors are used

for domestic hot water, heating
swimming pool water and for central
heating backup.

Vitosol 300 (Fig. 27 and 28) is a heat

pipe collector. An absorber with a
Sol-titanium coating, to which a heat
pipe is attached, is integrated into a
vacuum tube. The process medium
circulates through the heat pipe and
evaporates when heated. The heat is
transferred to the solar circuit via a
heat exchanger in a condenser in the
head section. This re-condenses the
medium.

In Vitosol 300, the heat exchange

between the condenser and the solar
circuit takes place in a dry state, i.e.
without direct contact between the
various liquids. The patented and
highly effective Duotec double-tube Fig. 27: Vitosol 300 heat pipe vacuum tube collector
heat exchanger almost completely
surrounds the condenser (Fig. 29).

In order to fully utilise the solar

energy, every collector tube is able
to pivot so that the absorber can be
turned towards the sun. Deviations
from the south can be partially
compensated by rotating the vacuum
tubes (maximum 25°).

Vitosol 300 vacuum tube collectors

are suitable for pitched and flat roofs
(with supports). The collector angle
of inclination must be at least 25°, to
ensure the circulation of the process
medium inside the heat exchanger
tube.

Fig. 28: Vitosol 300 Fig. 29: Highly effective ”Duotec” double-pipe
heat exchanger

17

6.2 DHW cylinders for solar heating
systems
Viessmann solar heating systems –
matching and complete
Viessmann offers matching and
complete solar heating systems,
comprising flat and vacuum tube
collectors, DHW cylinders, Divicon
pumping stations, Vitosolic control
units and heat exchangers.
DHW cylinder for DHW heating in
dual-mode operation
Vitocell-B 100
The heat absorbed by the solar
collectors is transferred in the dual-
mode Vitocell-B 100 with 300 or
500 litres capacity (Fig. 30) to the
DHW via the lower indirect coil. An
indirect coil arranged in the upper
area and heated by a boiler, reheats
the domestic hot water upon
demand. Where required, DHW can
also be heated through an electric
immersion heater. The DHW cylinder
is protected against corrosion by a
Ceraprotect enamel coating and an
additional cathode (magnesium or
impressed current anode).
Fig. 30: Vitocell-B 100 – dual-mode steel DHW
cylinder with Ceraprotect enamel coating
18
Viessmann system technology saves
costs and installation time
Vitocell-B 300
The powerful Vitocell-B 300 dual-
mode stainless steel DHW cylinder
with 300 or 500 litres capacity
(Fig. 31) is designed for dual-mode
DHW heating. The lower indirect coil
transfers the heat from the solar
panels to the DHW, whereas the
upper indirect coil enables DHW
heating, on demand, by the boiler.
Vitocell-B 300 is made from high-
alloy stainless steel. Its surface is and
remains homogeneous and therefore
hygienic. Dual-mode DHW cylinders
with 500 litres capacity are supplied
with removable soft PUR foam
insulation for easier handling.
Multi-mode heating water calorifier
with integral DHW heating
Vitocell 333
Vitocell 333 (Fig. 32) is a multi-mode
combination cylinder, which is
prepared for the simultaneous
connection of several heat sources.
It is also possible to link oil and gas
fired boilers, solid fuel boilers, solar
heating systems and heat pumps to
this cylinder.
Fig. 31: Vitocell-B 300 – dual-mode DHW
cylinder made from stainless steel
Vitocell 353
Vitocell 353 (Fig. 32) is a multi-mode
combination cylinder, which is
prepared for the simultaneous
connection of several heat sources.
As well as oil and gas fired boilers,
it is also possible to link solid fuel
boilers, solar heating systems and
heat pumps to this cylinder. The
stratification loading system ensures
the layering of solar energy heated
water at different temperatures,
making DHW heated by solar energy
available very quickly.
Vitocell 050
Heating water calorifier
For storing heating water in
conjunction with solar heating
systems, Viessmann offers the
Vitocell 050 heating water calorifier
with 200, 600 and 900 litres capacity.
This helps to keep the DHW cylinder
small (for hygiene considerations),
particularly in larger systems.
Fig. 32: Vitocell 333/353 – multi-mode
combination cylinder

6.3 System components
(Fig. 33)
Solar-Divicon pump station for all
hydraulic functions and thermal
protection
All essential safety and function
equipment, such as thermometer,
ball valves with check valves,
circulation pump, flow meter,
pressure gauge, safety valve and
thermal insulation are combined
in one compact assembly (Fig. 34).
Control units
Solar energy is particularly efficiently
utilised with the intelligent Vitosolic
energy management system in
combination with the solar collectors
in the Vitosol product range. The
Vitosolic 100 and 200 solar control
units are suitable for single and
multi-circuit solar heating systems,
and cover all conventional
applications. Data is exchanged via
the KM BUS with the weather
compensated Vitotronic boiler
control unit.
Vitosolig ensures that the energy
”harvested” on the roof is utilised
as effectively as possible for DHW
heating or for central heating backup.
Vitosolic 100/200 communicates with
the boiler control unit and switches
the boiler off, as soon as sufficient
solar energy is available – and that
reduces your heating costs.
Vitosolic 100
(Fig. 35 l.h. side)
Attractively priced solar control unit
for single circuit systems:
– Simple operation in accordance
with the Vitotronic control
philosophy.
– Two-line display with information
about current temperatures and
pump operating conditions.
– Small casing dimensions.
Viessmann system technology saves
costs and installation time
Solar collector
Fig. 34: Solar-Divicon pump station
Vitosolic
Solar-
Gas fired Divicon
condensing boiler
Dual-mode
DHW cylinder
Fig. 33: Viessmann solar heating system with Fig. 35: Vitosolic 100 and 200 control units
condensing boiler and dual-mode DHW cylinder
Vitosolic 200 Heating swimming pool water
(Fig. 35 r.h. side)
Viessmann offers Vitotrans 200 heat
Solar control unit for multi-circuit exchangers (Fig. 36) with various
systems with dedicated operator output stages for heating swimming
interface for up to four independent pool water. The heat exchanger
solar circuits: surfaces and connections are made
from high-grade, corrosion resistant
– Simple operation in accordance stainless steel.
with the Vitotronic control
philosophy.
– High operating convenience
through four-line plain text display
with menu assistance.
– For all conventional applications:
– multi-cylinder operation,
– swimming pool water heating,
– central heating backup.
– Large wiring chamber for easy
installation.
Fig. 36: Vitotrans 200 heat exchanger
19
 7 Solar heating systems for DHW
heating

Solar heating system with

dual-mode DHW cylinder
(Fig. 37) 2

Dual-circuit system, comprising:

– solar collector system,
– oil/gas fired boiler,
– dual-mode DHW cylinder.

DHW with solar energy

Solar circuit pump ➃ is switched ON

and the DHW cylinder is heated up,
T T
when a temperature difference 5
4
higher than the value set in Vitosolic
control unit ➀ is measured between
collector temperature sensor ➁ and
cylinder temperature sensor ➂. The 6
temperature inside the DHW cylinder
can be limited by the electronic limit
3
thermostat incorporated in
Vitosolic 100 ➀.

DHW heating by the boiler

Fig. 37: DHW heating with solar panels and a dual-mode DHW cylinder
The upper indirect coil of the DHW
cylinder is heated by a boiler. The
DHW control thermostat, to which a
DHW cylinder temperature sensor ➄
of the boiler control unit is
connected, starts cylinder loading
pump ➅.
2

Solar heating system with

two DHW cylinders
(Fig. 38)

Dual-circuit system, comprising:

– solar panel system, 1

– oil/gas fired boilers,

– two DHW cylinders, 7

(application: for example, an existing

DHW cylinder should also be used). T T
4
5

B A

Fig. 38: DHW heating with solar panels and two DHW cylinders

20

DHW heating with solar energy
The DHW cylinder will be heated by
the solar circuit, if a temperature
differential greater than the value set
at the Vitosolic control unit is
measured between collector
temperature sensor ➁ and the
temperature sensor of cylinder,
A . The temperature inside DHW
cylinder A can be limited by the
electronic limit thermostat
incorporated in Vitosolic 200 ➀.
Circulation pump ➆ will be started
via the second temperature
differential set in Vitosolic 200, as
soon as the temperature in DHW
cylinder A is higher than that of DHW
cylinder B . This then also utilises
DHW cylinder B to exploit the
available solar energy.
DHW heating by boiler
The boiler loads DHW cylinder B
(Fig. 38) if the actual temperature at
the DHW cylinder temperature
sensor ➄ falls below the set
temperature.
8 Integrating solar collectors into
heating systems
M
Fig. 39: Dual-mode DHW heating and supplementing the heating function
Solar heating system for DHW
heating and central heating backup
(Fig. 39)
Dual-circuit system, comprising:
– solar collector system,
– oil/gas fired boiler,
– multi-mode combination cylinder.
Heating the combination cylinder
through the solar heating system
Solar circuit pump ➃ is switched ON
and the combination cylinder is
heated up, when a temperature
difference higher than the value set
in Vitosolic control unit ➀ is
measured between collector
temperature sensor ➁ and lower
cylinder temperature sensor ➂. The
temperature inside the combination
cylinder can be limited by the
electronic limit thermostat
incorporated in Vitosolic 200 ➀. The
location of solar heat exchanger ➆
inside the combination cylinder
ensures that even small amounts of
heat, generated during periods of
little sunshine, can be utilised.
2
1
T T
5
6 4
7
3
Heating the combination cylinder by
boiler
The combination cylinder is heated
by the boiler (Fig. 37 and Fig. 38) if
the actual water temperature at
upper cylinder temperature sensor ➄
falls below the set heating water
temperature.
Instantaneous DHW heating
The heated DHW inside the
corrugated stainless steel pipe ➅ is
immediately available to be drawn
off. Cold incoming water is heated by
the heating water as it flows through
the corrugated stainless steel pipe.
When large volumes of DHW are
drawn off, the heating water inside
the combination cylinder cools
down. This triggers temperature
sensor ➄ to start the boiler, thereby
guaranteeing constant DHW
convenience at all times.
21
 9 Solar technology in a new light:
collectors as design features

Technology as part of architecture

Viessmann solar collectors are

innovative in their utilisation of solar
energy. No matter where these flat
panel or tubular solar collectors are
installed on top of a roof, on a wall or
integrated into the roof, they create
new aesthetic opportunities for
building design. Coupled with a
high degree of functionality, these
systems can be imaginatively
incorporated into modern
architecture (Fig. 40).

Intelligent alternatives to
conventional construction concepts

Vacuum tube collectors from

Viessmann provide interesting
opportunities for new design
concepts as single or as linked
assemblies. This is because solar
collectors are not simply matched to
the design of a building, they are
also used as structural construction
elements. These high performance
collectors can be an innovative part
Fig. 40: Nord LB Hannover
of the building design and their
optical effect is striking. Their
coloured glass tubes, for instance,
would endow any building with
instant visual impact.

The blue-print of an ecological city

became impressive reality in Malmö
(Sweden), the ”City of tomorrow”
(Fig. 41). 500 living units cover their
entire energy demand exclusively
from renewable resources. Vitosol
250/300 collectors represent an
essential part of their heating
provision. With just 300 m2 collector
area the avant-garde appearance
of this estate demonstrates the
successful innovative integration of
technology into architecture. Another
milestone of functional aesthetics:
the wall mounted solar heating
system from Viessmann at the Fig. 41: City of tomorrow, Malmö, Sweden Fig. 42: Studentenwerk Leipzig – awarded the
Studentenwerk, Leipzig, was environmental prize of Saxony
awarded the Saxony 2001
Environmental Prize (Fig. 42).

22
 Solar technology in a new light:
collectors as design features

A synthesis of functional and

aesthetic design

Vacuum tube collectors utilise free

solar energy and offer endless
creative opportunities for design.
Their installation location is not
limited to walls or roofs, Viessmann
solar heating systems are very
effective as wide projections or as
freestanding structures. Whilst the
collectors absorb solar energy, their
lamellar structure can provide
effective shade (Fig. 43).

Viessmann's many different versions

of collectors make them versatile
enough for almost any form of
installation. One of the pioneers is
the Vitosol 100 flat panel collector
which is perfect roof integration, with
its special assembly sets. The Vitosol
250 vacuum tube collector,
on the other hand, can be installed
in any position, e.g. on a wall or on
a flat roof, even without supports.
In addition, they can be mounted
on a balcony railing, as well as
horizontally or vertically on pitched
Fig. 43: Heliotrop, Freiburg with vacuum tube collectors
roofs.

A range of colours in an attractive

design

Vitosol 100 provides completely new

perspectives for matching roof and
solar collectors. The new edge trims
help to create a harmonious
transition from collector surface
to roof. Upon request, frame and
edge trim can be supplied in all RAL
colours, for a perfect match with the
roof colour (Fig. 44).

This makes this highly effective solar

collector with Sol-titanium coating
an integral part of the roof design.
Coupled with a high degree of
functionality, Viessmann solar
heating systems offer interesting
options for appealing architecture.

Fig. 44: Vitosol solar collectors – for attractive roof designs

23
 The Viessmann Group

The Viessmann Group employs

approximately 6800 staff worldwide and
is one of the foremost manufacturers of
heating equipment. For freestanding
boilers, Viessmann is the most
successful brand in Europe. The
Viessmann brand stands for competence
and innovation. The Viessmann Group
offers a comprehensive range of top-
quality, high-tech products along with
perfectly matched modular components.
For all their diversity, our products have
one thing in common: a consistently
high standard of quality that is reflected
in operational reliability, energy savings,
environmental compatibility and user-
friendliness.

Many of our developments point the

way forward for the heating sector,
both in terms of conventional heating
Viessmann offers technologies and in the field of
you a diverse renewable forms of energy, such as solar
range of products, and heat pump technology.
which are uniform
in quality and In all our developments we pursue our
adaptable enough philosophy of always achieving the
to be able to meet greatest possible benefit: for our
any demand and customers, the environment and our
any requirement partners, the heating contractors.

The Viessmann Group:

Viessmann Werke
D-35107 Allendorf (Eder)
Tel.: + 49 6452 70 - 0
Fax: + 49 6452 70 - 2780
www.viessmann.com

Viessmann UK Office:
Viessmann Limited
Hortonwood 30,Telford
Shropshire,TF1 7YP, GB
Tel.: + 44 1952 675000
Fax: + 44 1952 675040
Wall mounted oil e-mail: info-uk@viessmann.com
and gas fired
condensing boilers

Subject to technical modifications

9446 750 -1 GB 11/2004