Abstract
This chapter describes the steady-state test and dynamic test for the performance of solar collectors. The collector performance test is performed under steady-state conditions, with steady radiant energy falling on the collector surface, a steady fluid flow rate, and constant wind speed and ambient temperature. When a constant inlet fluid temperature is supplied to the collector, it is possible to maintain a constant outlet fluid temperature from the collector. For locations that do not have steady environmental conditions for long periods of time, the transient or dynamic system test method can be used. This method involves monitoring the transient response of a collector over a number of days, which include both clear and cloudy conditions. The performance data obtained from the dynamic method allow a more detailed characterization of the collector performance in comparison with the steady-state method. The advantages of the dynamic test method are that the test period is much shorter and can be conducted at any time of the year under variable weather conditions. After testing, the data collected over the wide range of operating conditions are fitted to a transient mathematical model of the collector performance.
Published Version
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