Performance evaluation of concentrator photovoltaic systems integrated with a new jet impingement-microchannel heat sink and heat spreader

Abstract

Thermal regulation of concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) systems is of great importance to keep silicon layer temperature within the maximum allowable temperature range, as it enhances overall performance and avoids potential solar cells damage. Therefore, a novel jet impingement mini- and- micro channel heat sink with a heat spreader integrated with a CPV system is designed. To evaluate the performance of the developed system, a three-dimensional conjugate thermo-fluid model for the solar cell layers, jet impingement with microchannel flow, and heat spreader is established. This model is numerically solved, and results are validated using the available measurements. The new system is then compared using several heat sink designs including a jet impingement-mini-channel with and without a heat spreader at different concentration ratios (CR) and coolant Reynolds numbers (Re). The findings indicate that at CR = 20, integrating a jet impingement-micro-channel heat sink, and a heat spreader with the CPV system accomplishes a uniform silicon layer temperature distribution with the lowest average temperature compared to other designs. In addition, the established design attains the highest net electrical power and electrical efficiency. The results of the current study demonstrate the effectiveness of combining active and passive cooling methods for thermal management of the CPV systems.