Oskar° stratified storage tank

Heat storage in stratified storage tanks

In the context of the energy transition, heat storage is now considered one of the most important components of a heating system. ratiotherm has been addressing this issue since 1991 and developed the Oskar° stratified storage tank with stratification technology. The biggest difference to a conventional buffer tank is that the natural stratification (warm water rises, cold water sinks) can be fully utilized by calming the water in the tank.

When the pump-driven heating water enters the inner chamber, it displaces the water there and pushes it into the layer chamber. The increase in volume due to the screw-like design reduces the speed of the water on its way there. The water, which has been calmed in this way, now flows into the appropriate layer due to its temperature. There it then exits into the actual storage volume through corresponding openings in the layer insert. Thanks to the layered storage of the water, the Oskar° stratified storage tank can optimally organize different heat sources and heat consumers in a highly flexible manner.

The advantages of stratified storage technology at a glance:

Optimal use of different heat generators
Maximum comfort for the user
Maximum flexibility in installation and application
Future-proof investment and increase in the value of the building stock
Modular expansion, can therefore be easily adapted to changed heat generator structures
If necessary, the storage tank can also be welded in the basement on site.

See for yourself:

Our proven Oskar° product line

Stratified Storage Tank Oskar° 08

Quick installation thanks to “Plug’n’Play”

Stratified Storage Tank Oskar° 10

The Allrounder

Stratified Storage Tank Oskar° WPS

The heat pump storage tank

Add-on Units for the Oskar° Heating System

Prefabricated assemblies for direct mounting on Oskar°

Oskar° stratified storage tank is the result of more than 30 years of experience.

Oskar° sorts

Oskar° sorts the water according to different temperatures

It does this by exploiting a natural property of water, without the need for complex and vulnerable control technology. Water naturally forms temperature layers because warmer water is lighter than colder water and therefore rises to the top. However, this temperature stratification is quickly destroyed when uncontrolled inflowing water swirls the contents of the tank and mixes the layers. The Oskar° stratified storage tank prevents this effect with its intelligent and patented stratification control system, which does not affect the water that has already been pre-sorted according to temperature, i.e. the existing layers. In addition, there are no “disruptive factors” in the Oskar° stratified storage tank, such as internal heat exchangers, which, in simple terms, cause thermal turbulence in the tank and destroy the stratification.

Oskar° is economical

Economic use

Where only warm water is required, such as in floor or wall heating systems, it is sufficient to tap the layer containing the warm water. This means that the solar system can still be used even on cloudy days when it only produces water at a temperature of 40°C. Where particularly hot water is required, for example in heat exchangers for hygienic drinking water heating, Oskar° simply taps the top temperature layer. In this way, savings of up to 30% and more are possible without any loss of comfort.

Oskar° is flexible

Oskar° gets the most out of your heating system

Whether you want to generate hot water for heating, bathing, and cooking using solar panels, pellets, wood chips, oil, gas, heat pumps, combined heat and power units, or a combination of these energy sources. And regardless of whether you prefer conventional radiators with high flow temperatures or want to use underfloor or wall heating systems that operate at lower temperatures: Oskar° is always your perfect partner – whether for new builds or renovations. And it will remain so in the future when new types of heat generators and heat consumers come onto the market.

The Oskar° stratified storage tank is not only available for every requirement, but also with a wide range of matching add-on modules and combinations. For example, for hygienic drinking water heating (hot water preparation), for the use of renewable energies, or for energy-saving heat generation and distribution.

Oskar° fits everywhere

On-site welding or customization

Oskar° can be delivered in sections for welding on site in narrow stairwells and doorways less than 80 cm wide. Our experts weld the storage tank in the boiler room and carry out a pressure test as in the factory. The storage tank can then be fully installed.

Adjustments to the height or diameter can also be made without any problems – always an individual solution. Even the connections can be varied, whether on the side or at the rear. Thanks to this flexibility, Oskar° has already proven itself 1000 times over.

Plug’n’Play Installation

Stand it up, connect it, done

The extremely high degree of prefabrication (three main components) of these storage assemblies saves installers and electricians a great deal of time. For example, the hydraulics for our storage tanks are delivered completely pre-assembled. The components are set up on the construction site, connected to the stratified storage tank, and the controller is installed to complete the system.

FAQ: Questions & answers about stratified storage tanks

When is a stratified storage tank worthwhile?

A stratified storage tank is always worthwhile if you want to save on storage technology and increase the performance of your existing heating system. Stratified storage tanks allow you to use your heat generators in the best possible way. They also protect your existing heating appliance. Imagine that your heating system cycles approximately 35 to 100 times a day, repeatedly generating powerful heating and cooling pulses. These individual running times are extended and regulated by a stratified storage tank. Reducing the number of pulses increases the service life of your heating system. A stratified storage tank is also the ideal choice for hot water production using solar energy. As with all energy-efficient systems, it is a future-proof investment. This greatly increases the value of your building. Ultimately, a stratified storage tank is always good for the environment, as its use significantly reduces emissions.

What should I consider when purchasing a stratified storage tank?

If you want to buy a stratified storage tank, pay attention to the storage capacity. It should be suitable for your existing heating system and living space. We have the right stratified storage tank for all types of heating systems and living spaces in our range. In addition to regulating heating water, stratified storage tanks also work efficiently to generate hot water. It all depends on your individual requirements. A retirement home, for example, has a much higher annual hot water demand than a single-family home. We will be happy to advise you on the right storage tank size for your needs. If hot water is generated using solar thermal energy, the size of the storage tank should also match the solar thermal area. We have the right storage tank for all standard areas in our range.

What is the difference between stratified storage tanks and buffer storage tanks?

The biggest difference to a conventional buffer tank is that the natural stratification (warm water rises, cold water sinks) can be fully utilized by calming the water in the tank. Thanks to the stratified storage of the water, the stratified storage tank can flexibly organize different heat sources and heat consumers in an optimal way. Stratified storage tanks offer significantly more functionality and efficiency than conventional buffer tanks.

Will I receive advice on buffer storage?

Of course. Do you have any general questions in advance? Feel free to give us a call. Our professional team is on hand to offer advice and assistance. We will be happy to explain how our stratified storage tanks work. Even if you have questions after your stratified storage tank has been installed.