Abstract
Thermal energy storage is a crucial process for retaining heat for future use. This experimental study investigates the integration of a storage tank containing water pipes and phase change materials (PCM) with a solar collector system. By employing paraffin wax (RT-42) as the PCM and leveraging its latent heat storage properties, the enhancement of thermal efficiency and energy storage capabilities in the evacuated tube solar collector is evaluated. Experiments were conducted under varying solar radiation intensity and ambient temperatures in winter and summer conditions. A solar collector and heater were tested for efficiency during winter and summer. The collector was installed at 45.5°S and heated with 120 litres of water. The system's efficiency was enhanced with increased solar radiation and flow rates. The thermal charging of the system took place between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm. The results showed longer hot water supply times at 4 L/m. The effect of adding PCMs and water pipes to solar collector systems was investigated, revealing significant improvements in thermal performance and energy storage. The findings showed an enhancement in temperature stability, with peak temperatures reaching 60°C in winter and 75°C in summer at flow rates of 4, 6, and 8 L/m. Using a storage tank, hot water pipes and PCM, especially paraffin wax, with a latent heat of fusion of 174 kJ/kg improved energy retention and hot water supply. The experiment outcomes showed that the summer hot water supply was twice as high as the winter hot water supply. The study also highlights the importance of improving flow rates to absorb and retain heat efficiently. Overall, the combination of PCM and water pipes enhanced the system efficiency and increased the availability of thermal energy.
Published Version
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