Comparative modeling of photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) collector performance using two different heat transfer fluids under the same weather scenario

Mohamed Ahliouati; Rabie El Otmani; Khalid Kandoussi; M’Hamed Boutaous

doi:10.51646/jsesd.v15iMME.410

Authors

Mohamed Ahliouati Chouaib Doukkali University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0006-9994
Rabie El Otmani https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8181-6233
Khalid Kandoussi
M’Hamed Boutaous

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51646/jsesd.v15iMME.410

Keywords:

Photovoltaic thermal, Solar collector, Efficiency, Modeling, Air, Water, Performance.

Abstract

In this paper, a detailed investigation of the energetic characteristics of a photovoltaic thermal collector taking into consideration water and air as heat transfer fluids, circulating through the flow channel at the collector under examination. The present research takes as its main purpose the evaluation of the differences in performance between both tested transfer flows and to identify the impact of each fluid on energy efficiency. A mathematical model governing heat transfer between the principal elements of the investigated device is defined. The numerical resolution of this model is carried out using MATLAB software, taking into consideration air and water as heat transfer fluids, with similar flow conditions and meteorological parameters. The numerical model allowed us to make a detailed evaluation of the energy properties of the analyzed system. The findings obtained showed significant differences between both coolants examined. The cooling effect of water demonstrated superior heat transfer capacity, with higher heat transfer rates and better overall energy efficiency than air, and a positive effect on electrical efficiency was observed. The use of water demonstrated a better overall energy efficiency of around 67.84%, compared with the case of air, which was no more than 57%.

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