Model, tests and optimization of flat plate solar collectors, with emphasis on sinusoidal honeycomb

Technical Report · Mon Oct 01 04:00:00 EDT 1979

OSTI ID:6660084

McMurrin, J C

An exact solution is obtained for a one-dimensional non-linear resistance network model of flat plate solar collectors with an arbitrary number of cover glasses and honeycomb structures. The models of Hottel, Whillier and Bliss and of Buchberg and Roulet are shown to be special cases of the solution. The model and specific resistance formulations are validated by tests on nine collectors, including two with sinusoidal-celled glass honeycombs. Radiation and convection properties for a range of sinusoidal honeycomb geometries and materials are estimated from existing data. Sinusoidal honeycomb geometry and cover spacing of conventional collectors are optimized analytically with and without economic considerations. Performance sensitivity of honeycomb and conventional collectors to environmental and operating conditions is analyzed.

• Research Organization: California Univ., Los Angeles (USA). School of Engineering and Applied Science
• DOE Contract Number: FG03-76CS31084
• OSTI ID: 6660084
• Report Number(s): UCLA-ENG-7971
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
141000* -- Solar Collectors & Concentrators
ANALYTICAL SOLUTION
COST
DESIGN
EQUIPMENT
FLAT PLATE COLLECTORS
HONEYCOMB STRUCTURES
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
MECHANICAL STRUCTURES
NETWORK ANALYSIS
OPTIMIZATION
PERFORMANCE TESTING
SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
TESTING