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Flat plate or concentrating collectors for solar cooling

Journal Article · · Sol. Eng. Mag.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5567667
A mathematical model was developed for calculating the Btu/dollar cost of different types of solar energy collectors for use with solar air conditioning chillers. High-efficiency flat plate collectors, evacuated tube collectors, and concentrating collectors can operate at temperatures in the range of 160-205/sup 0/F required for the absorption cycle of the chillers. For loads up to 6 tons, flat plate collectors may deliver more Btu/invested dollar, whereas, for larger loads, high-temperature collectors may supply more Btu/invested dollar. The useful energy removed from the collector is calculated as a function of the collector efficiency corrected for the angle of incidence, the percentage of sunshine, the clear day insolation, and the critical insolation of the collector, which is defined as the intensity of radiation below which the useful energy collection rate is zero. Solar collector selection is also influenced by the control system, the expansion tank or comparable system, the piping, vents and pumps, and the maintenance considerations. Arkla Industries has developed minimum recommended performance criteria for solar collectors utilized with the Solaire chiller.
OSTI ID:
5567667
Journal Information:
Sol. Eng. Mag.; (United States), Journal Name: Sol. Eng. Mag.; (United States) Vol. 4:6; ISSN SENMD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English