Course Curriculum
Photo of Eric Coffin, GEE Inc., at
Solar Source Institute, Largo, FL on April 9, 2010
“INTRODUCTION TO SOLAR THERMAL ENERGY FOR ENGINEERS"
Live Seminars in
Central West Florida
This solar thermal energy seminar is designed to educate engineers to the
economic, technological and public relations advantages of solar thermal
systems. The course provides a high level overview of solar thermal systems to
empower the attendee with knowledge so they can consider and conceptualize solar
energy in a project.Green Energy Engineering, approved by the Florida Board of
Professional Engineers to provide continuing education to Engineers.
This 4-hour class offers 4 Professional Development Hours
(PDHs).
CLASS OUTLINE
- Introduction of how solar thermal collectors can be included in the original
design or in a remodel to reduce electricity use and / or natural gas use for
water heating and reheat in air conditioning and winter heating.
- Quick overview of economics, carbon footprint and life cycle cost. Why is this
good for the building owner, architect, and engineer?
- What is a solar thermal collector? What does it look like? How does it work? How
to mount and orient the panel to the sun. Overview of piping, pumps, controls,
and storage tank.
- Sizing a panel for a heat load. Handling winter and summer heat gain.
- What is the peak, average, and minimum solar energy available in the Tampa Bay
area? Are some areas of the world better suited for solar panels? Are some areas
a poor selection?
- Structural engineering, weight, wind, supports. Things to consider when
designing a structure and a roof system.
- Electrical engineering for circulating pumps and controls.
- Architectural appearance.
- Mechanical engineering. Pipe sizing. Pump selection. Sizing a hot water storage
tank for domestic hot water. Sizing a hot water storage tank for air
conditioning reheat. Energy model runs with and without solar thermal
collectors.
- Economics review summarizes how the solar installation is a win-win for the
Architect, Engineer, and building owner.
Introduction to Solar Energy for Engineers