Experimental Investigation of Dual-Purpose Solar Water-Air Collector

Abstract

Research into renewable energy sources has accelerated due to the growing demand for sustainable energy worldwide. Solar energy has emerged as a crucial answer because of its abundance and environmental advantages. Dual-Purpose Solar Collectors (DPSCs), which can heat water and air at the same time, present a viable way to optimize solar energy use all year round. The thermal performance of a Dual-Purpose Solar Collector (DPSC) intended to heat water and air concurrently is examined in this work. In February, experimental measurements were made to assess how the system behaved under various operating circumstances. Tests were conducted on three water flow rates (0.02, 0.05, and 0.1 kg/s) and three air mass flow rates (0.049, 0.053, and 0.062 kg/s). According to the findings, the maximum energy gain for water was recorded at a flow rate of 0.1 kg/s, but the highest useful energy gain for air was recorded at a flow rate of 0.062 kg/s. The water side continuously performed better than the air side in terms of thermal effectiveness, especially at greater flow rates. A comprehensive picture of the DPSC's performance under winter conditions was provided by the recording of hourly fluctuations in ambient temperature and sun irradiation. These results demonstrate the DPSC's potential for both industrial and residential use, particularly in regions with mild winters where a single small solar system may satisfy two heating needs.