Abstract
The objective of this work is to theoretically and experimentally investigate the flow and temperature distribution in a solar collector panel with an absorber consisting of horizontal fins. Fluid flow and heat transfer in the collector panel are studied by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculations. Further, experimental investigations of a 12.5 m² solar collector panel with 16 parallel connected horizontal fins are carried out. The flow distribution through the absorber is evaluated by means of temperature measurements on the backside of the absorber tubes. The measured temperatures are compared to the temperatures determined by the CFD model and there is a good similarity between the measured and calculated results.
Calculations with the CFD model elucidate the flow and temperature distribution in the collector. The influences of operating conditions such as flow rate, temperature of inlet flow and collector tilt angle are shown. Based on the investigations preliminary recommendations for the operation of the investigated collector are given. For instance, minimum flow rate in order to avoid boiling in the horizontal strips is recommended.
| Original language | English |
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| Title of host publication | Proceedings of the 2005 Solar World Congress |
| Publication date | 2005 |
| Publication status | Published - 2005 |
| Event | ISES 2005 Solar World Congress: Bringing Water to the World - Orlando, FL, United States Duration: 6 Aug 2005 → 12 Aug 2005 http://www.swc2005.org/ |
Conference
| Conference | ISES 2005 Solar World Congress |
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| Country | United States |
| City | Orlando, FL |
| Period | 06/08/2005 → 12/08/2005 |
| Internet address |