One World Solar Collector tested to withstand extreme snow and wind loads

Perg, 27. April 2015 –The solar test bench of the Austrian Institute of Technology is able to simulate extreme tensile and compressive stress. As plastic-based solar collectors are an emerging technology, neither special test standards nor special testing methods have been established for these models.  “Therefore, the One World Solar Collector was tested using standards for solar collector and photovoltaic panels”, Robert Buchinger reports. The polymer-based collector was exposed to almost twice the stress required by snow load testing standards and met the requirements without any difficulty. In addition, cyclic strain – alternating tensile and compressive strain – was applied. Even this stress left the collector undamaged and no failings were found.

Sunlumo to further extend thematic leadership

“These tests go to show that the One World Solar Collector by far meets the usual standards”, adds Robert Buchinger. He is convinced that the design of the polymer-based collector played a positive role in the tests. “Our innovative collector is based on a coherent modular and holistic product design”, the Sunlumo CEO explains. The test results yield important findings for the manufacturing of plastic-based collectors and components. This advanced know-how enables the Austria-based company with offices in China, India and the USA, to further extend its position as thematic leader on an international level.

Austria’s largest non-university research centre

The Austrian Institute of Technology is Austria’s largest non-university research institution. The independent testing institute is internationally reputed and specialises in technologies for energy, mobility, safety and security, health and environment and in innovation systems. The institution has several branches throughout Austria.