CFD MODELING OF HEAT EXCHANGE PROCESS OF FLAT SOLAR WATER HEATING COLLECTOR

Abstract

Abstract. Introduction. Today, significant attention is being paid in our country to mitigating the effects of climate change and adapting to it, accelerating the transition to a “green” economy, and promoting a model of green and inclusive economic growth. Therefore, the use of solar water heating collectors in autonomous heating systems is considered a foundation of energy efficiency. Methods and Materials. This article presents the results of research conducted by the authors to improve the efficiency of the heat exchange process in flat plate solar water heating collectors. The dynamics of fluid flow and the heat exchange process in the absorber tube of the flat solar water heating collector were modeled using computer simulation, specifically with the COMSOL Multiphysics software package. Results. The absorber tube of the flat solar water heating collector was made from stainless steel, iron, copper, and aluminum. The heat exchange processes in these materials were modeled using CFD. The highest temperature was recorded in the copper (Cu) tube, confirming its high thermal conductivity. Aluminum (Al) came next, showing relatively good thermal conductivity. Iron (Fe) and steel exhibited the lowest temperature values, indicating slower heat transfer compared to copper and aluminum. Conclusion. The results of this study provide recommendations for optimizing the design of absorber tubes in solar water heating collectors