Reliability and Maintainability Study of Select Solar-Energy-System Components in the National Solar Data Network. Final Subcontract Report

摘要

This study reports on the reliability and maintainability of select solar energy system components evaluated in 16 solar heating and cooling systems over a one-year period. The systems evaluated were instrumented sites from the National Solar Data Network (NSDN). A complete description and system schematic for each site is provided. The study period was generally between October 1981 to October 1982. The report provides quantitative R and M data (e.g., Failure Rate and Mean Time Between Failures) on pumps, motors and fans from the selected NSDN sites, along with conclusions and recommendations based on comparative data for other components. In summary, pumps, valves, and heat exchangers in solar heating and cooling (SHAC) systems appear to be very reliable and show failure rates comparable to other mechanical system applications. Control systems typically used in SHAC systems appear to be the least reliable but still fall within the range of failures exhibited by other mechanical systems. Evidence suggests that piping leaks in SHAC systems occur at three times the rate of other mechanical systems. Recommendations are provided on other areas of research necessary to determine the useful life of SHAC system components. Finally, an appendix to this report describes actual failures encountered in the 16 systems evaluated. (ERA citation 08:050958)