3D numerical model of a concentrated photovoltaic thermal (CPV/T) system for thermal and electrical performance optimization

Concentrated Photovoltaic Thermal systems, integrating both photovoltaic and thermal technologies, have gained significant attention as a sustainable and efficient means of harnessing solar energy. This research paper investigates the performance of CPV/T systems by analysing four different collectors under diverse operating conditions. The collectors under scrutiny include Rectangular Channels, Trapezoidal Channel, Hexagonal honeycomb, and Chevron Pattern absorbers, each subjected to distinct parameter variations to comprehensively evaluate their efficiency and potential for integration into renewable energy systems. The study systematically examines the collectors' performance under varying environmental conditions, including 6 kWh/m2 solar irradiance, 24 °C ambient temperature, and 3 m/s wind speed. The impact of changing parameters such as velocity and fluid flow rate ranges from 20 to 30 kg/h on the overall system efficiency is thoroughly analysed. Through numerical simulations and experimental validations, the paper aims to provide insights into the dynamic behaviour of each collector type and their suitability for different applications and geographical locations. The analytical result correlates with the numerical mathematical models to provide more convincing evidence that the acquired data is accurate. At a flow rate of 30 kg/h, the overall efficiency is determined to be 49.3 % for the rectangular channel absorber, outperforming hexagonal honeycomb (41.2 %), chevron pattern (41.1 %), and Trapezoidal channel (40.9 %) absorbers. The simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the fabrication process for rectangular channel absorbers, achievable through standard manufacturing techniques such as etching or pressing into materials like copper, aluminium, or stainless steel, emerge as primary advantages

Experimental performance investigations on various orientations of evacuated double absorber tube for solar parabolic trough concentrator

The parabolic trough concentrator is a widely used concentrator to harness and concentrate on the solar energy. The performance of the parabolic trough concentrator depends upon its various parameters like reflecting surface, mass flow rate, concentration ratio, heat transfer fluid, rim angle, tracking of system, evacuation of absorber, and absorber tube. An absorber tube or receiver is the most important parameter that has an effect on the enhancement of heat transfer which was further specified by its material, surface coating, length, diameter, type of flow through it, number of absorber tube, various orientations of double tube, internal flow obstructions like twisted tape, different shape insertion in it etc. Different researchers had worked on different modifications of the absorber tube to increase the effective heat transfer. In this present experimental work, an investigation of the evacuated double tube absorber with its various orientations carried out for the designed and developed prototype of PTC.Scopu