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A numerical evaluation of the bifacial concentrated PV-STEG system cooled by mini-channel heat sink

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  • Gao, Yuanzhi
  • Wang, Changling
  • Wu, Dongxu
  • Dai, Zhaofeng
  • Chen, Bo
  • Zhang, Xiaosong

Abstract

The operating temperature of the novel bifacial concentrated photovoltaic-solar thermoelectric generator (PV-STEG) system is a decisive factor in determining the working performance. In this study, a mini-channel heat sink with superior heat transfer characteristics is selected to preserve the lower operating temperature of the PV cell and create sufficient temperature differences for the STEG unit. To settle the related problems, a three-dimensional numerical model is developed. Moreover, the conventional PV system is used as a reference configuration for comparative evaluation. The impact of adopting various flow channel shapes, input solar irradiance, Reynolds number, and inlet temperature is thoroughly explored. The obtained results suggested that the square mini-channel heat sink is more suitable. Furthermore, to maximize the power yield of the system, stronger solar irradiance, higher Reynolds number, and lower inlet temperature is recommended. Besides, the influence of employing diverse nanofluids is also analyzed. The outcomes indicated that the average PV temperature and power output could be significantly reduced/improved by utilizing nanofluids. Specifically, the total efficiency rose by 14.59% compared to the PV alone and PV-STEG systems using single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) nanofluid. Besides, an enhancement of 23.21% in exergy efficiency was obtained compared to the sole PV system.

Suggested Citation

  • Gao, Yuanzhi & Wang, Changling & Wu, Dongxu & Dai, Zhaofeng & Chen, Bo & Zhang, Xiaosong, 2022. "A numerical evaluation of the bifacial concentrated PV-STEG system cooled by mini-channel heat sink," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 192(C), pages 716-730.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:192:y:2022:i:c:p:716-730
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2022.04.153
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    6. Wen, Xin & Ji, Jie & Li, Zhaomeng & Song, Zhiying & Yao, Tingting, 2023. "Performance characterization of a PV/T system employing micro-channel heat pipes and thermoelectric generators: An experimental and numerical study," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 264(C).
    7. Kouravand, Amir & Kasaeian, Alibakhsh & Pourfayaz, Fathollah & Vaziri Rad, Mohammad Amin, 2022. "Evaluation of a nanofluid-based concentrating photovoltaic thermal system integrated with finned PCM heatsink: An experimental study," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 201(P1), pages 1010-1025.
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