Exergy analysis of forced convection solar flat plate collector using different working fluids

Abstract

Abstract Solar energy is a widely available energy resource which can be effectively utilized without any effect on the environment. The solar Flat Plate Collector (FPC) is most commonly used collector in many solar thermal applications, but the energy absorption from the solar irradiation and transporting heat to the working fluid is less efficient. The efficiency of the collector can be enhanced by varying different parameters like reducing the air gap between the absorber plate and the glass cover of the collector, optimizing the dimensions of collector components and using high thermal stability working fluids. In these present work experimentalinvestigationand exergy analysis carried out on two selected working fluids water and coolant, are compared. The maximum outlet temperature for coolant and water as working fluid is recorded as 63°C and 59°C during higher solar intensity. The exergy efficiency of water and coolant is obtained as 6.7% and 7% respectively during peak sunshine hours.