The reversed circular flow jet impingement (RCFJI) PV/T collector: Thermohydraulic and electrohydraulic analysis

Abstract

Solar energy could be used to generate both electricity and heat with the aid of photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) systems. Although the systems have a variety of advantages, they nevertheless hold a significant constraint. The system suffers a susceptible constraint wherein the photovoltaic (PV) module experiences an increase in temperature due to exposure to solar irradiation. The integration of a cooling system is necessary to enhance its operational efficiency. A novel approach, known as the reversed circular flow jet impingement (RCFJI), was proposed as a means to improve the performance of a PV/T collector. The current work seeks to assess the thermohydraulic and electrohydraulic performance of the RCFJI PV/T collector. The experiment was conducted under an irradiance level of 500–900 W/m2. From the result obtained, the thermohydraulic efficiency reached its maximum value of 59.20% under 900 W/m2 at 0.14 kg/s. Conversely, the electrohydraulic efficiency attained the highest reading of 10.91% under 500 W/m2 at 0.13 kg/s. It was concluded that a higher flow rate reduces the friction coefficient while increasing the pressure drop. The thermohydraulic and electrohydraulic analyses emphasize the importance of assessing the friction coefficient and pressure drop to attain optimal performance. This study addresses the lack of research by presenting a new cooling approach that utilizes jet impingement. In addition, this study provides an understanding of the thermohydraulic and electrohydraulic performance of a RCFJI PV/T collector.