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A Parametric Study of a Natural Flow Solar Air Heater with a Rectangular Air-Duct Profile

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  • H. Ondieki
  • J. Tonui

Abstract

This article presents a theoretical analysis of a solar air heater (SAH) with a rectangular air duct profile operated in a natural airflow mode. The study involves modelling the SAH system and simulated results are used to study the effects of various operating conditions and design parameters on its performance. The results show that an increase in the mass flow rate, solar insolation and collector length increases the efficiency of the SAH system. Optimal values of efficiency are obtained when the mass flow rate is greater than 0.01 kgs−1, solar insolation is greater than 1000 W/m2 and with a collector length of between 1.5 and 2.0 m. It is also observed that the efficiency of the collector decreases with increasing channel depth, showing that better performances of the collector are obtained at small channel depths but this results in an increase in the pressure drop which requires more pumping power.

Suggested Citation

  • H. Ondieki & J. Tonui, 2013. "A Parametric Study of a Natural Flow Solar Air Heater with a Rectangular Air-Duct Profile," African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 5(2), pages 97-102.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:rajsxx:v:5:y:2013:i:2:p:97-102
    DOI: 10.1080/20421338.2013.795793
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