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Numerical analysis of the fluid flow and heat transfer of a hybrid PV-thermal collector and performance assessment

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  • Herrando, María
  • Fantoni, Guillermo
  • Cubero, Ana
  • Simón-Allué, Raquel
  • Guedea, Isabel
  • Fueyo, Norberto

Abstract

In recent years, new materials and absorber configurations have been proposed to improve the performance of hybrid photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) collectors. This work analyses the fluid flow and the energy performance of an uncovered water-based PV-T collector with a roll-bond thermal absorber. A detailed CFD model was developed and the results were compared with the experimental performance features provided by the PV-T manufacturer. The fluid flow results show uneven flow distribution among the roll-bond microchannels which leads to areas with larger PV cell temperatures and thus a lower electricity generation. The PV-T collector layers were also modelled using the energy transfer equations layer-by-layer. The model was run for several water inlet temperatures and water flow-rates to obtain the thermal performance curve. The results show that the electrical efficiency of the PV-T collector is 14.5–10.3% larger than for a PV-only system for water inlet temperatures of 20–30 °C, respectively. The developed CFD model reproduces accurately the thermal performance of the PV-T collector, with a maximum error of 6.5% for inlet water temperatures of 20–60 °C. Therefore, this model can be used with confidence to propose alternative designs that achieve a homogeneous temperature distribution in the PV layer and improve the overall PV-T collector performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Herrando, María & Fantoni, Guillermo & Cubero, Ana & Simón-Allué, Raquel & Guedea, Isabel & Fueyo, Norberto, 2023. "Numerical analysis of the fluid flow and heat transfer of a hybrid PV-thermal collector and performance assessment," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 209(C), pages 122-132.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:209:y:2023:i:c:p:122-132
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2023.03.125
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