Difference between expansion tank and absorber in HW system 1

[tbarkerjr]

I'm looking at contract drawings that call out an expansion tank in the schedule for plumbing. However, on the riser diagram it shows a 'thermal absorber'. Is there a difference or are these interchangeable terms?

 

[gr2vessels]

Thermal absorber is the piping system on the roof to absorb sun radiation for heating water in your home HW system. The expansion tank is an inline piping pressure breaker tank provided to compensate for thermal expansion of your piping system.
Cheers,
gr2vessels

 

[GenB]

same thing basically if both expansion tanks and thermal absorbers are sized correctly.

 

[tbarkerjr]

Since the riser diagram shows the absorber in the basement, I think GenB's answer more aligns with my application. Thanks to both GenB and gr2vessels for the response.

 

[gr2vessels]

Thermal absorber in the basement??! You didn't mention your building is in a volcano crater...

 

[tbarkerjr]

It was in the 30s in the basement this morning, so I'm pretty sure the building is not situated within a volcano crater =D. I think it's simply the ME misusing terminology.

 

[GenB]

agin they are similar but there is a difference between the 2 devices. not the ME fault.
you need more research or someone else will get the job.
post it in the plumbing forum. I'm out of this one.