Investigative analysis of the influence of diverse fin configurations on the performance of a dual pass solar air collector

Abstract

This study conducts a thorough investigation into the thermal performance of the double pass solar air collector, with a specific focus on the effects of three distinct fin configurations: parallel, vertical, and opposed. It is significant as it delves into the realm of solar air heating efficiency, a critical component in the broader application of solar energy technologies. Utilizing the geometric details and experimental findings, this study broadens its scope by examining a range of mass flow rates, specifically 0.0036 kg/s, 0.0110 kg/s, 0.0146 kg/s, and 0.0183 kg/s. Such an approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the double pass solar air collector’s performance across diverse operational scenarios. The methodology is Computational Fluid Dynamics, which facilitates an in-depth analysis of temperature and velocity contours in both XY and YZ planes of the double pass solar air collector. The results of this study indicate that the parallel fin configuration significantly enhances heat transfer, evidenced by notable temperature increases, especially at the lower end of the mass flow rate spectrum. Conversely, while vertical and opposed fins result in greater pressure drops, they do not proportionally increase the temperature in a similar manner to parallel fins. The study concludes with a strong recommendation for the incorporation of parallel fins in future double pass solar air collector designs, particularly in situations where lower mass flow rates are predominant. This study contributes significantly to both the theoretical and practical aspects of solar collector efficiency, offering valuable insights for the development of more effective solar heating solutions.