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A holistic methodology for designing novel flat plate evacuated solar thermal collectors: Modelling and experimental assessment

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  • Barone, Giovanni
  • Buonomano, Annamaria
  • Kalogirou, Soteris
  • Ktistis, Panayiotis
  • Palombo, Adolfo

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the design, implementation, experimentation, and optimization of a novel evacuated flat-plate solar thermal collector characterized by a vacuum level between the glass cover and the absorber plate. The paper addresses different research themes, primarily focusing on developing a low-cost evacuated solar thermal collector with a high innovation level. Additionally, it introduces a comprehensive approach for the conceptualization, design, fabrication, testing, and optimization of solar thermal collectors. Specifically, this study aims to highlight the characteristics of a vacuum-enhanced solar thermal collector and demonstrate a step-by-step process involved in its design, fabrication, testing, and optimization. The proposed methodology is based on the adoption of two software tools and an extensive experimental analysis: the commercial software ANSYS is utilized for structural analysis, while MatLab is employed to develop a suitable mathematical tool for assessing the energy performance of the system and optimizing it. The outcomes show the reliability of the methodology and the performance of the low-cost evacuated solar thermal collector under different vacuum levels, providing insights into energy, economic, and environmental aspects. This work innovates by presenting a thorough analysis covering all solar thermal collector production phases, from conceptualization to optimization. The conclusions highlight the production of a reliable approach, and proof-of-concept results demonstrate how increasing the vacuum level enhances the thermal efficiency of a solar collector.

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  • Barone, Giovanni & Buonomano, Annamaria & Kalogirou, Soteris & Ktistis, Panayiotis & Palombo, Adolfo, 2024. "A holistic methodology for designing novel flat plate evacuated solar thermal collectors: Modelling and experimental assessment," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 232(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:232:y:2024:i:c:s0960148124010358
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2024.120967
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    3. Li, Yantong & Liang, Junhan & Chen, Weihao & Wu, Zebo & Yin, Huibin, 2025. "Optimal design of a solar-assisted heat pump system with PCM tank for swimming pool utilization," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 240(C).

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