Influence of the sun exposure surface area of the solar aggregate stockpiles on the accumulated heat of the stored mineral mixture

Abstract

This paper analyses the influence of the variable sun exposure surface area of the solar aggregate stockpiles on the results of the mineral mixture accumulated heat in different seasons (summer – autumn). The solar aggregate stockpiles in question are intended for use in industrial applications for the production of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA). These tests aim to establish the difference in temperature of the mineral mixture with and without the effects of sunlight. For the purpose of this test, three test models of solar aggregate stockpiles and one reference model to simulate the conditions of uncovered and unprepared surface storage were constructed. All the solar models had consistent volumes, the same shape, thickness and type of brim heat insulation and orientation, where the only difference was the surface area of the glass opening designed to let through varying amounts of sunlight. For the purpose of this test, analysis was made of the heat build-up of the mineral mixture when exposed to sunlight, without exposure to sunlight at night, and the drop in temperature over several days when the mixture was not exposed to sunlight. The results of the test show that the increased opening area of the solar aggregate stockpiles and the use of solar models in themselves lead to increased heat accumulation of the mineral mixture and reduced heat loss during daytime and in other conditions when the mineral mixture is not exposed to sunlight.