🔥 Bowman EC120-5113-3S-SP Stainless Steel Heat Exchanger | Up to 70kW | Solar Panel Series

☀️ Premium British-Made Heat Exchanger Optimised for Solar Thermal & Renewable Energy Pool Heating Systems

📋 Product Overview

The Bowman EC120-5113-3S-SP is a professional-grade shell and tube swimming pool heat exchanger, expertly engineered for integration with solar thermal collectors, heat pumps, and renewable energy heating systems. Manufactured by EJ Bowman in Birmingham, UK, with over 100 years of heat transfer technology expertise, this stainless steel model delivers efficient and reliable heat exchange for environmentally conscious pool owners.

Featuring a robust stainless steel tube core housed within a durable composite shell, this heat exchanger is designed for pools up to 130m³ (28,500 gallons). The ‘Universal Fit’ composite end covers accommodate both imperial 1.5″ (48mm O/D) and metric 50mm O/D pool pipework, ensuring straightforward installation across various plumbing configurations. The removable tube stack design allows easy access for routine maintenance, ensuring long-term performance and efficiency.

Ideal for residential and small commercial installations seeking sustainable heating solutions, the EC120-5113-3S-SP combines proven Bowman engineering with modern renewable energy compatibility.

⭐ Key Features

✅ Typical Heat Transfer Capacity: Up to 70kW with boiler heating, 20kW with renewable energy sources (solar/heat pump)

✅ Stainless Steel Tube Core: Durable construction for freshwater pool applications with excellent heat transfer properties

✅ Universal Fit End Covers: Compatible with both 1.5″ (48mm O/D) imperial and 50mm O/D metric pool pipework

✅ Solar Panel Optimised: Specifically designed for integration with solar thermal collectors and heat pump systems

✅ Maximum Pool Water Flow: 15.0 m³/h (250 l/min) for efficient heat distribution

✅ Maximum Operating Pressure: 6 bar (87 psi) on both pool water and hot water circuits

✅ Maximum Operating Temperature: 110°C (230°F) for versatile heat source compatibility

✅ Removable Tube Stack: Easy disassembly for routine maintenance and inspection

✅ Flexible Mounting Options: Install vertically or horizontally with supplied mounting brackets

✅ Compact & Lightweight: Just 5.5kg and 542mm overall length for easy handling and installation

✅ British Manufacturing Quality: Proudly made by EJ Bowman in Birmingham, UK – 100 years of heat transfer expertise

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Model Number	EC120-5113-3S-SP
Series	Solar Panel Series
Heat Output (Boiler)	Up to 70kW
Heat Output (Renewable)	Up to 20kW
Shell Material	Composite
Tube Material	Stainless Steel
Max Pool Volume	130m³ (28,500 gallons)
Maximum Pool Water Flow	15.0 m³/h (250 l/min)
Max Operating Pressure (Pool Water)	6 bar (87 psi)
Max Operating Pressure (Hot Water)	6 bar (87 psi)
Max Operating Temperature	110°C (230°F)
Connections (Hot Water)	3/4″ BSP inlet & outlet
Connections (Pool Water)	Universal Fit – 1.5″ (48mm O/D) or 50mm O/D
Overall Length	542mm
Mounting Centres	226mm
Body Diameter	86mm
Thermostat Pocket	Ø7 x 40mm (inlet end only)
Weight (Dry)	5.5 kg

📊 Heat Transfer Performance

The Bowman EC120-5113-3S-SP delivers impressive heat transfer capabilities across a range of operating conditions. Performance varies based on hot water temperature and flow rate.

🌡️ Heat Transfer Output Table

Pool water flow: 250 l/min at 28°C

Hot Water Flow Rate	82°C	70°C	60°C	45°C
10 l/min	26 kW	20 kW	15 kW	8 kW
20 l/min	41 kW	31 kW	24 kW	12 kW
30 l/min	51 kW	39 kW	29 kW	15 kW
40 l/min	58 kW	45 kW	34 kW	17 kW
50 l/min	64 kW	49 kW	37 kW	19 kW
60 l/min	69 kW	53 kW	40 kW	21 kW
70 l/min	73 kW	56 kW	42 kW	22 kW

Source: Bowman EC120-5113-3 Product Profile, February 2017

⚡ Efficiency Factors

• Flow Rate Optimisation: Providing the correct water flow volume is vital to heat exchanger performance. Insufficient flow on either circuit reduces efficiency.
• Temperature Differential: Higher temperature differentials between the heat source and pool water increase heat transfer rates.
• Proper Sizing: Ensuring the heat exchanger is correctly sized for your pool volume and heat source capacity is essential.

⏱️ Heat-Up Times & Temperature Maintenance

⚠️ Important Notice: Heat-up times vary significantly based on multiple factors and are not specified in the manufacturer documentation for this model. The heat exchanger is a passive device – actual heating performance depends entirely on your heat source.

Variables Affecting Heating Time:

• Heat source capacity (kW/BTU rating of your boiler, heat pump, or solar array)
• Starting water temperature
• Target water temperature
• Pool cover usage (can reduce heat loss by up to 75%)
• Ambient/outdoor temperature
• Pool insulation and construction
• Weather conditions and wind exposure

🏊 Pool Heating Performance Guidance

Heat Output Capability:

• With boiler at 70°C and 60 l/min flow: Up to 53 kW transfer capacity
• With renewable energy (solar/heat pump): Up to 20 kW typical output

Suitable Pool Volumes:

• Maximum recommended pool capacity: 130m³ (28,500 gallons)

🛡️ Material & Compatibility Guide

Stainless Steel Construction

The EC120-5113-3S-SP features a stainless steel tube core, offering:

✅ Freshwater Pool Applications: Ideal for standard chlorinated freshwater pools

✅ Excellent Heat Transfer: Stainless steel provides efficient thermal conductivity

✅ Cost-Effective Durability: Robust construction at an economical price point

✅ Solar System Compatible: Perfect for lower-temperature renewable energy applications

⚠️ Important Compatibility Notice

❌ NOT suitable for use with:

• Salt water pools
• Salt water chlorinators
• High-salinity water applications

For salt water pools, consider the Bowman EC120-5113-3T (Titanium) model which offers full corrosion resistance and a 10-year warranty on titanium materials.

Material Comparison Guide

Material	Best For	Salt Water	Warranty
Stainless Steel (This Model)	Freshwater pools, Solar systems	❌ No	Standard
Cupro-Nickel (5113-3C)	Chlorinated freshwater	❌ No	Standard
Titanium (5113-3T)	Salt water, Chlorinators	✅ Yes	10 Years (Materials)

🎯 Applications & Use Cases

🏊‍♂️ Residential Swimming Pools

Ideal for domestic pools up to 130m³, providing efficient heat transfer from various heat sources.

☀️ Solar Thermal Integration

Specifically optimised for solar collector systems, maximising renewable energy utilisation with typical 20kW heat transfer capability.

🔥 Heat Pump Systems

Compatible with air source and ground source heat pumps for year-round pool heating efficiency.

🏢 Small Commercial Pools

Suitable for small commercial installations, holiday lets, and boutique hotel pools within capacity limits.

♨️ Hybrid Heating Systems

Perfect for installations combining multiple heat sources (solar + boiler backup, heat pump + boiler, etc.).

🌍 Eco-Friendly Installations

Ideal for environmentally conscious pool owners seeking to reduce carbon footprint through renewable energy heating.

🔨 Installation Considerations

Mounting Options

✅ Horizontal Mounting: Standard installation with supplied mounting brackets

✅ Vertical Mounting: Alternative orientation supported for space-constrained installations

Connection Requirements

Hot Water Circuit (Shell Side):

• 3/4″ BSP threaded connections
• Inlet and outlet clearly marked on unit

Pool Water Circuit (Tube Side):

• Universal Fit end covers accommodate:
  • 1.5″ nominal pipe size (48mm O/D)
  • Metric 50mm O/D pipework
• Solvent weld adaptors included

Flow Direction

• Pool water flows through the tube side (inner tubes)
• Hot water flows through the shell side (outer chamber)
• Ensure correct flow direction as marked on unit

Thermostat Pocket

• Located on inlet end only
• Dimensions: Ø7 x 40mm
• Allows temperature monitoring of incoming pool water

Pressure Drop Data

Shell Side (Hot Water):

Flow Rate	Pressure Drop
20 l/min	2.4 kPa
30 l/min	5.2 kPa
40 l/min	9.3 kPa
50 l/min	14.4 kPa
60 l/min	20.7 kPa
70 l/min	28.1 kPa

Tube Side (Pool Water):

Flow Rate	Pressure Drop
50 l/min	0.6 kPa
100 l/min	2.0 kPa
150 l/min	4.2 kPa
200 l/min	7.1 kPa
250 l/min	10.7 kPa

Installation Notes

⚠️ Automatic Dosing Systems: If fitted, must be installed AFTER the heat exchanger on the return line to the pool.

⚠️ Isolation Valves: Recommended on both inlet and outlet for maintenance access.

⚠️ Non-Return Valve: Install on the heating circuit to prevent backflow.

⚠️ Professional Installation: Always recommended for warranty compliance and optimal performance.

📥 Downloads & Resources

📄 Bowman EC120-5113-3 Product Profile – Complete technical specifications and dimensional drawings (PDF)

🏆 Why Choose Bowman Heat Exchangers

✅ 100 Years of Expertise: EJ Bowman has been pioneering heat transfer technology since the early 1900s

✅ British Manufacturing Quality: Proudly designed and manufactured in Birmingham, UK

✅ Proven Performance: Trusted by pool professionals worldwide for reliable, efficient heat exchange

✅ Universal Fit Design: Innovative end covers accommodate both imperial and metric pipework

✅ Easy Maintenance: Removable tube stack design allows simple servicing and inspection

✅ Comprehensive Range: Multiple material options (Stainless Steel, Cupro-Nickel, Titanium) to suit every application

✅ Renewable Energy Ready: Optimised designs specifically for solar thermal and heat pump integration

🛒 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ UK-Based Specialist: Dedicated pool and spa parts supplier with expert knowledge

✅ Technical Support: Experienced team available to help with sizing, selection, and installation queries

✅ Fast UK Delivery: Quick dispatch to get your project moving

✅ Competitive Pricing: Great value on genuine Bowman products

✅ After-Sales Support: Ongoing assistance for any questions post-purchase

✅ Genuine Products: Authorised supplier of authentic Bowman heat exchangers

✨ Summary

The Bowman EC120-5113-3S-SP Stainless Steel Heat Exchanger represents the perfect combination of British engineering excellence and renewable energy optimisation. With up to 70kW heat transfer capability, universal pipework compatibility, and a compact 5.5kg design, this unit delivers efficient pool heating for freshwater pools up to 130m³. Ideal for solar thermal, heat pump, and hybrid heating installations, it’s backed by Bowman’s century of heat transfer expertise. Choose quality, choose efficiency, choose Bowman.