Optimizing heat transfer in solar collectors using cone-perforated channels: A 3D numerical analysis

IF 5.1 3区工程技术 Q2 ENERGY & FUELS Thermal Science and Engineering Progress Pub Date : 2025-01-23 DOI:10.1016/j.tsep.2025.103278

Raoua Fattoum , Rached Miri , Ammar Hidouri , Mohammed El Hadi Attia , Müslüm Arıcı

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Abstract

This research explores enhancing the efficiency of a solar air heater (SAH) by integrating cone-perforated channels as roughness features on the absorber plate. Two configurations are examined: parallel-flow cone-perforated (PC) and inclined-flow cone-perforated (IC). Three diameters (20 mm, 30 mm, and 40 mm) for each configuration are tested. The PC configuration aligns the plates parallel to the flow, while the IC configuration arranges them at an incline. These configurations are labeled as PC20, PC30, PC40, IC20, IC30, and IC40, respectively. The model’s accuracy is validated by comparing calculated outcomes with experimental data. The Realizable k-epsilon turbulence model shows a favorable correspondence between the computed and observed results. Mass flow rate is varied from 0.022 to 0.045 kg/s to assess its impact on SAH performance. The cone-perforated channels significantly affect thermal performance, with inclined configurations (IC20, IC30, IC40) enhancing heat transfer efficiency more than parallel configurations (PC20, PC30, PC40) due to increased turbulence. Friction factor analysis shows increased resistance with narrower passages, especially in smaller diameters (PC20, IC20). Convective heat transfer analysis displays higher temperatures and Nusselt numbers in smaller diameter configurations, with enhancements from 6.09 % to 43.53 % compared to smooth ducts. Despite higher Nusselt numbers, parallel-flow cone-perforated plate absorbers exhibit lower thermo-hydraulic performance parameter values due to higher friction factors. In contrast, inclined-flow cone-perforated plate absorbers (IC40) demonstrate higher thermo-hydraulic performance, attributed to enhanced heat transfer and efficient airflow, making IC40 configurations more favorable for overall thermal–hydraulic performance.

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来源期刊

Thermal Science and Engineering Progress Chemical Engineering-Fluid Flow and Transfer Processes

CiteScore

7.20

自引率

10.40%

发文量

327

审稿时长

41 days

期刊介绍： Thermal Science and Engineering Progress (TSEP) publishes original, high-quality research articles that span activities ranging from fundamental scientific research and discussion of the more controversial thermodynamic theories, to developments in thermal engineering that are in many instances examples of the way scientists and engineers are addressing the challenges facing a growing population – smart cities and global warming – maximising thermodynamic efficiencies and minimising all heat losses. It is intended that these will be of current relevance and interest to industry, academia and other practitioners. It is evident that many specialised journals in thermal and, to some extent, in fluid disciplines tend to focus on topics that can be classified as fundamental in nature, or are ‘applied’ and near-market. Thermal Science and Engineering Progress will bridge the gap between these two areas, allowing authors to make an easy choice, should they or a journal editor feel that their papers are ‘out of scope’ when considering other journals. The range of topics covered by Thermal Science and Engineering Progress addresses the rapid rate of development being made in thermal transfer processes as they affect traditional fields, and important growth in the topical research areas of aerospace, thermal biological and medical systems, electronics and nano-technologies, renewable energy systems, food production (including agriculture), and the need to minimise man-made thermal impacts on climate change. Review articles on appropriate topics for TSEP are encouraged, although until TSEP is fully established, these will be limited in number. Before submitting such articles, please contact one of the Editors, or a member of the Editorial Advisory Board with an outline of your proposal and your expertise in the area of your review.