Abstract
Reducing the wind loading of photovoltaic structures is crucial for their structural stability. In this study, two solar panel arrayed sets were numerically tested for load reduction purposes. All panel surface areas of the arrayed set are exposed to the wind similarly. The first set was comprised of conventional panels. The second one was fitted with square holes located right at the gravity center of each panel. Wind flow analysis on standalone arrayed set of panels at fixed inclination was carried out to calculate the wind loads at various flow velocities and directions. The panels which included holes reduced the velocity in the downwind flow region and extended the low velocity flow region when compared to the nonhole panels. The loading reduction, in the arrayed set of panels with holes ranged from 0.8% to 12.53%. The maximum load reduction occurred at 6.0 m/s upwind velocity and 120.0° approach angle. At 30.00 approach angle, wind load increased but marginally. Current research work findings suggest that the panel holes greatly affect the flow pattern and subsequently the wind load reduction. The computational analysis indicates that it is possible to considerably reduce the wind loading using panels with holes.
Highlights
Renewable energy resources trends show an increase in solar energy usage
The mesh convergence analysis was performed at 30.0∘ approach angle and 14.0 m/s upwind velocity
The maximum load reduction occurs at 6.0 m/s upwind velocity and 120.0∘ approach angle
Summary
Renewable energy resources trends show an increase in solar energy usage. Existing photovoltaic installation system methods may differ in their design but all are strongly influenced by wind loads. Given the growing demand for solar energy, the studies that have been conducted in the field of photovoltaic systems aerodynamic load reduction analysis are relatively few. Chung et al [3] conducted experimental study of a scaled commercial system to investigate the mean surface pressure distributions and uplift forces at different wind speeds resulting in the following: the wind uplift is effectively reduced with a guide plate placed normal to wind direction. Chou et al [4] investigated experimentally the effect of a crosswind on the aerodynamic characteristics of two different solar water heaters setups. The results revealed that at the near upwind corner the higher suction and fluctuating pressure are observed and that the presence of the horizontal cylinder increases the lift force
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