Why Does Solar Energy Vacuum Tube Break? 6 Reasons and Prevention
Vacuum tubes are produced from borosilicate glass and are quite durable. This special glass is 3 times more resistant to high temperature changes than normal glass. However, in some cases, breakage or cracking may occur. Here are the detailed reasons and prevention methods.
📑 Contents
25mm
Hail resistance
150°C
Max operating temp
3.3mm
Glass thickness
10-15 min
Replacement time
Reasons for Breakage
1. Thermal Shock (Most Common)
Sudden temperature change is the biggest enemy of glass. The following situations cause thermal shock:
- • Cold water to hot tube: Pumping ice-cold water into an operating system
- • Dry system + sun: Tank without water overheating in the sun
- • Frozen tube + sun: Sun hitting a tube that froze overnight
2. Hail Storm
Large-sized hail can cause serious damage to glass tubes:
≤25mm
Safe
25-35mm
Risky
>35mm
High damage
3. Installation Error
Incorrect installation creates permanent stress on the glass:
- • Forcing the tubes in
- • Placing at the wrong angle
- • Tightening or bending
- • Not using silicone gasket
4. Manufacturing Defect / Low Quality
Issues seen in cheap and poor quality production:
- • Micro cracks inside the glass
- • Uneven glass thickness
- • Insufficient vacuum level
- • Low quality borosilicate
5. Physical Impact
Damages caused by external factors:
- • Bird strike
- • Flying objects in storm
- • Incorrect intervention during maintenance
- • Accidental impact while working on the roof
6. Aging and Fatigue
Issues seen after many years of use:
- • Expansion of micro cracks in glass
- • Vacuum loss (fogging)
- • Deterioration of the absorbent coating
Prevention Methods
You can prevent tube breakage to a great extent by taking the following precautions:
✅ Golden Rules
Dry tubes overheat in the sun and are subjected to thermal shock.
Before 08:00 AM or after 06:00 PM is the ideal time.
Oily hands leave marks on the glass and disrupt heat distribution.
Choose products with certifications such as Solar Keymark, CE.
Never force the tubes, install them by rotating slowly.
Keep 1-2 spare tubes ready for emergency replacement.
Replacing Broken Tube
Replacing a broken tube is quite easy and takes an average of 10-15 minutes:
Spare Vacuum Tube
Get 58mm x 1800mm vacuum tubes at wholesale prices. Heat pipe and spare parts are also available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does a vacuum tube explode?
The most common reason is thermal shock. Giving cold water to a hot tube or leaving an empty system in the sun causes sudden temperature change and the glass cracks. Other reasons: hail, installation error, manufacturing defect, and physical impact.
Is a vacuum tube hail resistant?
Quality borosilicate glass tubes are resistant to hail up to 25mm in diameter. Larger hail stones can cause damage. In areas with high hail risk, protective wire cages can be installed.
Is it difficult to replace a broken tube?
No, it is quite easy. You can install the new tube by rotating it with silicone grease. Replacement is done in an average of 10-15 minutes. Detailed guide →
How can I prevent tube breakage?
Never leave the system without water, perform the first filling when there is no sun, hold the tubes with gloves, choose quality products and be careful during maintenance.
