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Design, Simulation and Optimization of a Novel Transpired Tubular Solar Air Heater

unglazed collector
tubular absorber
solar air heater
unglazed transpired tu...
Related publication: 10.3390/en17102323
In this paper, a novel tubular solar air heater is introduced. In this air heater, the hot boundary layer is drawn into the absorber tube and can provide thermal energy at moderate temperatures. Several different cases were simulated and a correlation was proposed to predict the collector’s effectiveness as a function Rayleigh number and Reynolds number. An equation was derived to find the effectiveness of this collector. Finally, a real case was studied with non-uniform solar flux distribution, as well as radiation heat loss. Good agreement was found between the results and those derived by the proposed analytical method. For different suction values, the first-law and the second-law efficiencies were calculated. Based on the exergy analysis, exergy destruction in absorption is the dominant factor that is unavoidable in low-temperature collectors. It was shown that there is an optimum suction value at which the second-law efficiency is maximized. At the optimum point, temperature rise can reach 54 K, which is hardly possible with a flat plate collector. Based on the exergy analysis, the relation between tube wall temperature and air outlet temperature in their dimensionless forms at the optimum working condition was derived, and it was shown that effectiveness at the optimum working condition is around 0.5. This means that the air temperature rise shall be half of the temperature difference between the collector wall and the ambient temperatures. A high outlet temperature besides the low cost of construction and maintenance are the main advantages of this air heater. With such a high temperature rise, this type of collector can increase the use of solar energy in domestic applications.
2 Participants

4 June

This research on the novel tubular solar air heater is truly commendable. The innovative design, thorough simulations, and real case studies demonstrate a significant advancement in solar energy utilization. The proposed correlation and derived equations showcase a deep understanding of the collector's effectiveness, while the identified optimum suction value for maximizing efficiency is a remarkable achievement.

The substantial temperature rise and the cost-effectiveness of construction and maintenance position this technology as a promising solution for enhancing solar energy utilization in domestic settings.

Overall, this research represents a valuable contribution to the field of renewable energy and holds great potential for practical implementation.
0

4 June

Thanks for your supporting comments.
It shows your deep understanding of solar energy and its future.
As you commented correctly, this innovative design opens a new window towards solar energy application in our daily lives.
Regards
2