
5.4. Flat Roof Installation
The high angle frame is adjustable and appropriate for installations on flat surfaces and provides adjustment
from 27°-57
°
. The high angle frame kit combines with the standard frame components to form the complete
frame assembly. Refer to Appendix 2 for diagram.
5.4.1. Frame Feet Anchoring
a) Frame feet should be bolted to the installation surface using 5/16” (8 mm) diameter bolts or a similarly
sturdy fastening method. If possible stainless steel bolts should be used. Galvanized bolts must have a
nylon/rubber washer under the head to prevent contact with the stainless steel in order to prevent galvanic
corrosion.
b) The surface or concrete block must be strong/heavy enough to withstand load during high winds.
Consult a professional structural engineer for design requirements. Refer also to section 3.13 for estimated
wind loading values.
5.4.2. Adjusting Frame Angle
a) Angle Adjustment: The rear legs of the high angle frame comprise two interlocking pieces (top and
bottom leg), which allow the length of the rear leg to be adjusted, thus changing the collector angle from
between 27
°
and 57
°
. If using round feet, the legs can be moved backward slightly to lower the angle. The
rear legs must never be positioned greater than a 90
°
angle (perpendicular) with the roof surface, meaning
the legs must be behind the position of the manifold, not in front. See diagram to right.
b) Rear Legs: Each rear leg has two pieces, a top and a bottom, which allows them to be adjusted. The two
pieces must always be joined together by 2 bolts through two sets of holes each in each leg for structural
support.
c) Lower Angles: If an angle less than 27
°
is required the legs may be cut short, or contact Apricus for a set
of short legs the same as those used on the mini demonstration 4 tube collector frame.
d) Higher Angles: If an angle greater than 57
°
is required, the mounting points of the rear feet may be
raised. Raising the angle greatly increases the horizontal force during high winds and may require
additional structural and/or hardware upgrades. Consult a building engineer for design requirements.
See also section 3.13 on wind loading guidelines.
5.5. Wall Mounting (Low, Mid or High Angle Frames)
5.5.1. Wall Frame Options
If mounting on a wall, the high angle frame kit may be used with the legs reversed so that they attach to the
bottom of the standard frame channels rather than the top. The legs should be position perpendicular to the
wall and adjusted as need in the same manner as described above.
5.5.2. Attachment Methods
a) Brick & Concrete: The method used for attachment to the wall will depend on the wall material. For brick
or concrete walls, the round feet can be secured with stainless steel expansion bolts.
b) Boarding: For wood or synthetic boarding, stainless steel lag screws of at least 5/16” diameter or greater
with high sheer strength that can penetrate into the wall framework are necessary.
c) Wall Strength: Always consider the weight of the collector and the structural integrity of the wall. If the
wall construction is not suitable for the load, it will be necessary to reinforce the wall frame accordingly.
Consult a building engineer for design requirements.
d) Recommended Angle: Ideally, do not install the collector beyond an angle of 80
°
(close to vertical)
otherwise heat pipe operation will be impaired by 10% or greater. Installing vertically is permitted and will
not void the warranty, but performance will be reduced.
e) Roof Eves: When installing on a wall, consider the possible shading from eves, particularly in the
summer (Unless this is part of the system design, in order to minimize summer heat output). Installing under
an eve overhang also minimizes snow buildup on the collector in areas with regular, heavy snowfall.
f) Safety Considerations: If installing the collector on a wall above a walkway,keep in mind the danger of
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