Mathematical model of flat plate solar thermal collector and its validation

Abstract

In order to predict solar thermal collector’s performance and optimization of control algorithms, proper mathematical models are necessary. Computer calculation technique provides tools for determination of modern materials impact on improvement of heat transfer inside the collector and minimization of heat loss. Such analysis is impossible by using standard technical datasheet provided by producer or by using empirical formulas. In the paper the authors present a mathematical model of a flat plate solar thermal collector based on the Hottel-Whiller-Bliss equation and criterial formula. The iterative algorithm solved steady state heat transfer equations for a glazed and an unglazed collector. The validation experiment was conducted under class AAA sun simulator for different inlet temperature and solar irradiation values. The unglazed PV/T and glazed solar thermal collectors were tested. For PV/T the relative difference, between measured and computed outlet temperatures, was below 5% and the highest value was reached for the lowest inlet temperature. The validation study showed that the experimental results reached good agreement with simulation predictions. Presented computation algorithm enables to predict influence of geometry changes on collector performance. The model could be used for optimization of the construction without using CFD methods, which need large computation resources.