A TRACKING SOLAR CONCENTRATOR
COLLECTOR CONSTRUCTION P>The construction is clearly shown in the photos, figure 27 and figure 28.
Two of the 1/2" square steel tube frame pieces serve as manifolds to distribute the fluid across the face of the sandwich. The other two are simply gap fillers so you have something to weld to. Notch and bend the manifold pieces according to figure 27. Drill the holes as shown. If you choose to weld the notched bends at this time, then grind the weld flat, so as to maintain the 1/2" spacing. Deform the square ends of the manifold pieces a bit and file a bit on the round brass fitting so that they loosely mate, and braze them together as shown.
Drill the two plates (701) together for the 5/16" stay bolts and bolt them together, using two nuts between them for spacers. The two nuts should provide very close to the desired 1/2" space. Don't weld the stay bolts until the edges are done-it will warp the plates. Clamp the 1/2" square frame/manifold pieces (702) between the plates and tack weld them at the center of each side only.
Weld in two or three inch passes, both plates to the frame/manifold pieces, starting at the center of one side. Do the same on the opposite side, then the other two sides. Continue working out, two or three inches at a time toward the corners, keeping the clamps just ahead of your weld. This will result in a warp free job.
