🌡️ Bowman EC160 5113-5S-SP Stainless Steel Heat Exchanger | 55kW Solar Panel Series

☀️ High-Capacity Solar-Optimised Pool Heat Exchanger – British-Made Quality for Renewable Energy Systems

📋 Product Overview

The Bowman EC160 5113-5S-SP is a premium shell and tube swimming pool heat exchanger from Bowman’s renowned EC160 range, specifically engineered for solar panel and renewable energy heating systems. Backed by over 100 years of heat transfer technology expertise, this stainless steel model delivers efficient heat transfer for pools up to 120,000 litres (26,000 gallons).

Featuring Bowman’s innovative ‘Universal Fit’ composite end covers, the EC160 5113-5S-SP integrates seamlessly into both imperial 1.5″ (48mm OD) and metric 50mm OD pool pipework systems. The removable tube stack design ensures simple maintenance access, whilst the robust stainless steel construction provides excellent durability for freshwater pool installations.

Ideal for environmentally conscious pool owners seeking to harness solar thermal energy, this heat exchanger is compatible with solar collectors, heat pumps, and traditional boiler systems – making it a versatile choice for hybrid heating configurations.

⭐ Key Features

✅ 55kW Typical Heat Transfer – High-capacity renewable energy performance verified by manufacturer testing

✅ Stainless Steel Tube Core – Durable construction for freshwater pool applications

✅ 120,000 Litre Pool Capacity – Suitable for pools up to 26,000 gallons

✅ Universal Fit End Covers – Compatible with both 1.5″ imperial (48mm OD) and 50mm metric pipework

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

✅ Flexible Mounting Options – Horizontal or vertical installation with supplied mounting brackets

✅ Integrated Thermostat Pocket – Ø7 x 40mm pocket on inlet end for temperature monitoring

✅ High Flow Capacity – Maximum pool water flow of 250 l/min (15.0 m³/h)

✅ 110°C Maximum Operating Temperature – Suitable for high-temperature solar thermal systems

✅ British Manufactured – Designed and built by EJ Bowman in Birmingham, UK

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Model Number	EC160-5113-5S-SP
Tube Material	Stainless Steel
Shell Material	Composite/Metal Construction
Typical Heat Output	55kW (Renewable Energy Systems)
Maximum Heat Transfer	Up to 107kW at 82°C / 60 l/min hot water flow
Typical Pool Capacity	120 m³ / 120,000 litres / 26,000 gallons
Maximum Pool Water Flow	15.0 m³/h / 250 l/min
Maximum Hot Water Temperature	110°C / 230°F
Max Operating Pressure (Pool Water)	6 bar / 87 psi
Max Operating Pressure (Hot Water)	6 bar / 87 psi
Hot Water Connections	3/4″ BSP (Inlet & Outlet)
Pool Water Connections	50mm metric or 1.5″ (48mm OD) imperial – Universal Fit
Overall Length	768mm
Mounting Hole Centres	452mm / 416mm
Shell Diameter	86mm
Thermostat Pocket	Ø7 x 40mm (Inlet End)
Weight (Dry)	8.5 kg
Manufacturer	EJ Bowman (Birmingham) Ltd, UK

📊 Heat Transfer Performance

The EC160 5113-5S-SP delivers impressive heat transfer capabilities, with performance varying based on hot water supply temperature and flow rate. All performance data below is taken directly from the manufacturer’s product brochure.

🔥 Heat Output at Various Temperatures

Pool water flow: 250 l/min at 28°C

Hot Water Flow	82°C Supply	70°C Supply	60°C Supply	45°C Supply
10 l/min	33 kW	25 kW	19 kW	10 kW
20 l/min	56 kW	43 kW	33 kW	17 kW
30 l/min	73 kW	56 kW	42 kW	22 kW
40 l/min	86 kW	67 kW	50 kW	26 kW
50 l/min	97 kW	75 kW	56 kW	29 kW
60 l/min	107 kW	82 kW	62 kW	32 kW

⚡ Efficiency Factors

✅ Flow Rate Optimisation – Higher flow rates significantly improve heat transfer efficiency

✅ Temperature Differential – Greater difference between hot water supply and pool water maximises performance

✅ Proper Sizing – Matching heat exchanger capacity to heat source output ensures optimal operation

✅ Solar Integration – 55kW typical performance optimised for renewable energy systems

⏱️ 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.

Variables That Affect Heating Time:

• Heat source capacity (kW/BTU output of solar panels, heat pump, or boiler)
• Starting water temperature
• Target water temperature
• Pool cover usage (reduces heat loss by up to 75%)
• Ambient/outdoor temperature
• Wind exposure and pool location
• Heat exchanger sizing match to heat source

⚠️ Why We Don’t Provide Estimated Heat-Up Times:

Heat exchangers are passive devices – they transfer heat from a source but do not generate heat themselves. The heating time for your pool depends entirely on:

1. Your heat source output – A 15kW solar thermal array will heat slower than a 30kW system
2. Environmental conditions – Outdoor temperature, wind, and sunlight hours (for solar)
3. Pool characteristics – Volume, insulation, cover usage, and heat retention

🛡️ Material & Compatibility Guide

Stainless Steel Construction

The EC160 5113-5S-SP features a stainless steel tube core, offering excellent durability and heat transfer properties for freshwater pool applications.

✅ Suitable For:

✅ Freshwater swimming pools

✅ Standard chlorinated pools (chemical dosing systems)

✅ Solar thermal heating systems

✅ Heat pump connections

✅ Boiler-fed heating systems

✅ Hybrid heating configurations

❌ NOT Recommended For:

❌ Salt water pools

❌ Pools fitted with salt water chlorinators

❌ Marine or high-salinity applications

⚠️ Important: If you have a salt water pool or salt chlorinator system, please consider the Titanium (EC160-5113-5T) or Cupro-Nickel (EC160-5113-5C) models in this range instead.

Alternative Material Options in the EC160 Range:

Model	Tube Material	Salt Water Compatible	Warranty
EC160-5113-5T	Titanium	✅ Yes	10 years on titanium materials
EC160-5113-5C	Cupro-Nickel	✅ Yes	Standard
EC160-5113-5S	Stainless Steel	❌ No	Standard

🎯 Applications & Use Cases

🏊‍♂️ Domestic Swimming Pools

Ideal for medium to large residential pools up to 120,000 litres, particularly those utilising solar thermal heating systems for eco-friendly operation.

☀️ Solar Thermal Integration

Specifically optimised for solar collector systems, the EC160 5113-5S-SP efficiently transfers heat from solar panels to pool water, reducing energy costs and carbon footprint.

🔥 Boiler-Connected Systems

Compatible with gas, oil, or biomass boilers for rapid pool heating, with maximum hot water temperature rating of 110°C accommodating most boiler outputs.

⚡ Heat Pump Applications

Works seamlessly with air-source and ground-source heat pumps for energy-efficient year-round pool heating.

🏢 Light Commercial Installations

Suitable for holiday lets, small hotels, leisure facilities, and rental properties requiring reliable, efficient pool heating.

🌿 Hybrid Heating Systems

Perfect for installations combining multiple heat sources (solar + boiler backup, or heat pump + solar boost) for maximum efficiency and reliability.

🔨 Installation Considerations

Mounting Options

✅ Horizontal Mounting – Standard installation with supplied brackets

✅ Vertical Mounting – Alternative configuration where space is limited

Connection Requirements

• Hot Water (Shell Side): 3/4″ BSP threaded connections for inlet and outlet
• Pool Water (Tube Side): Universal Fit end covers accept both 50mm metric and 1.5″ (48mm OD) imperial pipework
• Solvent Weld Adaptors: Included for secure, leak-free pool water connections

Flow Direction

⚠️ Critical: Observe correct flow direction as marked on the unit. Pool water flows through the tube side; hot water (from solar/boiler/heat pump) flows through the shell side.

Chemical Dosing Systems

⚠️ Important: If an automatic dosing system is installed, it must be positioned after the heat exchanger on the return to the pool. Never install dosing equipment before the heat exchanger.

Thermostat Installation

The integrated thermostat pocket (Ø7 x 40mm) on the inlet end allows connection of temperature sensors for system monitoring and control.

Space Requirements

• Overall length: 768mm
• Shell diameter: 86mm
• Allow adequate clearance for end cover removal during maintenance

⚠️ Professional Installation Recommended

For optimal performance, warranty compliance, and safety, we strongly recommend installation by a qualified heating engineer or pool professional.

📥 Downloads & Resources

📄 EC160 5113-5 Product Brochure – Complete technical specifications, dimensions, and performance data  (PDF)

🏆 Why Choose Bowman Heat Exchangers

✅ 100+ Years of Expertise – EJ Bowman has manufactured heat transfer equipment since 1920, bringing unmatched experience to every product

✅ British Manufacturing Quality – Designed and built in Birmingham, UK to exacting standards

✅ Proven Performance – Trusted by pool professionals worldwide for reliable, efficient heat transfer

✅ Premium Materials – Choice of Titanium, Cupro-Nickel, or Stainless Steel tube cores to match your application

✅ 10-Year Titanium Warranty – Industry-leading warranty on titanium material models demonstrates confidence in quality

✅ Comprehensive Range – Full selection of sizes and materials to suit any pool heating requirement

✅ Simple Maintenance – Removable tube stack design allows easy inspection and cleaning

🛒 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

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

✅ Technical Support – Our team can help you select the right heat exchanger for your specific application

✅ Fast UK Delivery – Quick dispatch to get your project completed on time

✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on genuine Bowman products

✅ Full Range Available – Access to complete Bowman EC160 range including Titanium and Cupro-Nickel models

✅ After-Sales Support – Ongoing assistance with installation queries and technical questions

✨ Summary

The Bowman EC160 5113-5S-SP represents the perfect choice for pool owners seeking a high-quality, solar-optimised heat exchanger from a trusted British manufacturer. With 55kW typical heat transfer capacity, versatile Universal Fit connections, and durable stainless steel construction, this unit delivers efficient, reliable pool heating for freshwater installations up to 120,000 litres. Backed by Bowman’s century of heat transfer expertise, this is a proven solution for renewable energy pool heating systems.