Evaluation of ''Solaris'' water-trickle solar collector and demonstration of annual cycle collection and storage of solar heated water

Conference · Thu Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1976

OSTI ID:7235663

Beard, J T; Iachetta, F A; Lilleleht, L U; Dickey, J W; Huckstep, F L; May, Jr, W B

This is a report of the progress and results of two research projects on solar energy heating which are being conducted at the University of Virginia. First, research on the thermal performance of the Thomason ''Solaris'' water-trickle solar collector is described. This work includes testing with the aid of a special outdoor collector research facility. Results demonstrate the collection efficiency ranges from 30% up to approximately 75%. Significant variables which influence efficiency include inlet water temperature, ambient temperature, incident solar energy, glazing cleanliness, angle of incidence, wind condition, and the evaporation and condensation which occur within the collector. The thermal performance of the ''Solaris'' water-trickle collector is compared with published results for conventional single and double flat-plate collectors. The second project involves the demonstration and evaluation of a system for the year-round collection of solar energy with storage for heating applications. The system resembles a swimming pool with an insulated top which acts as a solar collector as well as a device to limit the evaporative cooling of the water.

• Research Organization: Virginia Univ., Charlottesville (USA)
• OSTI ID: 7235663
• Report Number(s): CONF-761143-1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140901 -- Solar Thermal Utilization-- Space Heating & Cooling
141000* -- Solar Collectors & Concentrators
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY STORAGE
FLAT PLATE COLLECTORS
HEAT STORAGE
HEATING SYSTEMS
PERFORMANCE TESTING
PONDS
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR HEATING SYSTEMS
STORAGE
TESTING
THERMAL INSULATION