Mathematical Modelling of Single Glazed and Double Glazed Solar Air Heater

Abstract

This paper focuses on Mathematical Modelling of Single Glazed and Double Glazed Solar air heater (SAH) which is special kind of heat exchanger that transfers thermal energy from the solar radiation to the fluid flowing inside of the collector. The most potential applications of SAH is the supply of hot air for heating of buildings, to maintain a comfortable environment especially in the winter season, air preheating, desiccant refrigeration, and drying of vegetables, fruits, meat, textile and marine products. Solar radiation intensity is less in the morning that increase gradually till noon and again decrease from noon to evening. During simulations it is observed that the heat gain is directly proportional to the mass flow rate. It is maximum for the counter flow SAH and is least for transpired solar air heater. The efficiency of the SAH is directly proportional to mass flow rate. The thermal efficiency is maximum for the counter flow SAH, The useful heat gain increases is highest in the clear days of summer month particularly in the month of April-May and lowest in the cloudy days of winter month particularly in the month of December. The results are in conformation with theoretical aspects.