Thermal Performance of Solar Collector with Multi Direction Properties using Cross Absorber

摘要

A solar collector with multi direction properties using cross absorbers has been developed and its performance has been studied. The concept of multi direction is used so that solar radiation can penetrate to the top and sides of the solar collector. In this study, comparison between conventional solar collector (CSC) and solar collector with multi direction properties (SCwMDp) were made whereby SCwMDp was installed with polycarbonate on the side while the CSC will be insulated by using an insulfex type on its side. The experimental setup has been constructed to investigate the thermal performance over a range of the designs and operating conditions. Several important relationships between the designs and operating conditions have been obtained where the effects of mass flow rate, solar radiation, and temperature rises on the thermal efficiency of both solar collectors have been observed. Overall, the SCwMDp is suitable to add or increase the intensity of solar radiation passing through the solar collector. Hence, the heat energy generated in the solar collector system could be improved by increasing the cross absorber. Apparently, SCwMDp performed better total efficiency as compared with CSC.