solar can heater columns

[RodgersResearch]

Great technique! And I have a question for you. Previous/other versions I've seen had baffles or vents between the cans.

As I look at this, I get the impression that the result will be a long tube, completely hollow inside. Is this correct? If so, other than cost, why not just use long galvanized tubes? Thanks.

[supergokue1]

@RodgersResearch Good question, on my lastest solar heater that I made, I used a down spout and just placed the hollow cans on the inside. Then I just painted the down spout black and put them in a box. Check out my solar window heater video, it goes into greater detail. Thank you for the question, Lonny

[bmxion]

GREAT IDÉ!!!

[CTOL1]

Believe it or not you may remove the bottom by laying the can on it's side and crimping the edge with your can opener, turning the handle as you begin your pierce and going around. The cutting wheel is inside the or toward the doomed recess. took me two tries to get it right, and the first cans were ruined. I used an American made "singaway" brand hand opener, looks somewhat like the one you were using,true you still need to glue them with RTV but it is quick

[supergokue1]

Thanks for the tip.

[souleeze]

@supergokue1 how did you cut off the bottom of can without damaging the can? Did yours ever come apart in your project..how did it work out?

[supergokue1]

@souleeze Well, after cutting the top off with a can opener, I took a old towel and crammed it in the can so it would not dent as I cut the can. Then I took a hacksaw and made a line around the bottom of the can. The aluminum gets real thin after that. Then I took a razor blade knife and cut the bottom off. It took me a few tries before I got good at it. It is working great and it has not come apart so far. Thanks for the question.

[adjmptw0]

I think you mean aluminium. D:

[MrEasyrhino]

Hi supergokue1 got a question for you.Does your heater generate enough heat to cause the cans to loosen and become not as airtight then compared to caulking the cans together?Looks like its a heck of allot easier then caulking the cans together.thanks for the great vid!

[supergokue1]

@MrEasyrhino They seem to be holding together great and I have not had any problem with them so far. I think they both methods have pros and cons. Thanks for the question.

[ramrod573]

how do you cut bottom of can

[supergokue1]

I first cut off the top with a can opener, then I stuffed the can with a old towel so it would not get dented. Then I used a hacksaw to remove the bottom. Hope that helps.

[dmacosta1]

nice i like it