How it works

The high-efficiency polycrystalline solar panel is optimised for sunny weather, so more power is transmitted on sunny days.

The PowerTrackT control system is an intelligent power conditioning system which has been designed to produce maximum power from the solar panel. The system monitors the output from the solar panel every 5 milliseconds and changes its configuration to maximize the power available. With the normal solar panel connection, a 12V solar panel will provide approximately 100 l/s of extra ventilation.

However with the use of the unique switching when the threshold of 14V is met, the PowertrackT controller boosts the voltage of solar energy to 25V. Under low sunlight conditions, the system shuts down the output to the fan to prevent low power from damaging the boost fan.

A high efficiency DC fan carries an air stream into the room through the central duct in the Windcatcher unit The fan features a unique Feathered EdgeT blade so as to be ultra-quiet. It runs on ball bearings and has a brushless motor for zero maintenance and a very long life. Externally The Windcatcher Sola-boost systems are supplied with the distinctive blue/black crystalline photovoltaic panels. The GRP louvres and capping can be supplied in any BS or RAL colour. Both Square and Circular options are available so that Architects can ensure that the Windcatcher systems they select can become both an integral part of their overall design and contribute to the low energy performance of the building to maximise energy efficiency. Individual and Fully Automatic Control Two types of control are provided with the Sola-boost. The control panel is normally mounted on an internal wall, allowing the end user compete control of the Sola-boost natural ventilation system. The Windcatcher will always operate within its own design parameters but the Sola-boost adds his further dimension to extend the capabilities of natural ventilation.

The fan features a unique Feathered Edge™ blade so as to be ultra-quiet. It runs on ball bearings and has a brushless motor for zero maintenance and a very long life.

Internal Control Panel

Fully Automatic Control

The oval control panel includes three settings for the Sola-boost fan. Full speed - allows the Sola-boost system to automatically select the maximum available power for the boost fan. Half Speed - restricts the fan speed to normal speed. Off - shuts the volume control damper. The automatic settings can be overridden by the user from the Open and Close manual damper controls which either fully open or fully close the dampers for a set period. The Sola-boost system can be interlinked with a Cylon Control panel, or similar, allowing seasonal control via an integral time and date clock to alter the operational parameters dependant on the season.

Individual Control

The Sola-boost system can be provided with its own independent control panel which includes the Sola-boost fan controls as detailed above but, with the addition of a turn dial positioner to control the volume control dampers. If the in built internal temperature sensor detects the room temperature dropping to below 20°C the control panel will automatically shut off the fan. The dampers can also be controlled within set parameters.

Externally

The Windcatcher systems are supplied with polycrystalline photovoltaic panels which combine with the GRP louvres and capping for a complete unit supplied in any BS or RAL colour. Both Square and Circular options are available so that Architects can ensure that the Windcatcher systems they select can become both an integral part of the overall design and contribute to the overall performance of the building to maximise energy efficiency.