Numerical Analysis of Integrated Phase Change Material in Solar Water Heating Systems

Abstract

A mathematical model based upon the conservation and heat transfer equations has been developed to predict the thermal behavior of integrated phase change material in solar collector during thermal storage. The model includes fusion of the phase change material as well as sensible heat. The thermal behavior of the phase change material during charging and discharging have been studied numerically, and analyzed under different conditions. Comparisons were made against experimental data for validation of the predictive model. The model fairly predicted experimental data obtained at various inlet conditions.