Sensitivity analysis and thermal performance optimization of evacuated U-tube solar collector using genetic algorithm

Sensitivity analysis and thermal performance optimization of evacuated U-tube solar collector using genetic algorithm

Hamid R. Moslemi Mohammad M. Keshtkar 

Mechanical Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Kerman 7635131167, Iran

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Kerman 7635131167, Iran

Corresponding Author Email: 
mkeshtkar54@yahoo.com
Page: 
1193-1202
|
DOI: 
https://doi.org/10.18280/ijht.360406
Received: 
10 April 2018
| |
Accepted: 
10 September 2018
| | Citation

OPEN ACCESS

Abstract: 

In order to achieve clean solar energy and utilize this free energy in a useful manner, current research aims at investigation of thermal performance of an evacuated U-tube solar collection, and specifying conditions that lead to development of highest thermal efficiency for the collector. The collector’s efficiency is calculated in this work by introducing parameters affecting thermal efficiency including mass flow rate, collector length, and conditions that are mostly environmental factors. Finally, optimal values of decision variables to achieve maximum collector’s efficiency were specified using sensitivity analysis results and genetic algorithm. The results show that the collector’s efficiency would be increased by increasing thermal conductivity coefficient of filler materials at the gap between copper blade and absorbent surface. In comparison between using MWCNT nano-fluid and water as the operating fluid, as well as using air, water, Benzene and Na-k alloy fluids separately in the air gap between the copper blade and the adsorbent surface, the collector’s efficiency would be increased by 10.4, 12.5, 10.8, and 10.8, respectively.

Keywords: 

sensivity analysis, thermal performance, optimization, evacuated U-tube, solar collector, genetic algorithm

1. Introduction
2. Statement of Problem and Governing Equations
3. Results
4. Conclusions
Nomenclature
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