Development of a heating system using CPV technology and heat pipes

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to increase the generating efficiency of concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) technology within a restricted area using solar tracking and heat pipes. We propose a system with the ability to extract thermal energy from CPV devices using a thermal absorber containing heat pipes and cooling water. This energy can then be used for a heating system or hot-water supply. We performed a parametric analysis of the velocity and entrance location of the cooling water in the thermal absorber with respect to the operating temperature of the CPV devices and the outlet temperature of the cooling water in the thermal absorber. We also examined the effect of the lens concentration ratio. Simulated and experimental results for the thermal absorber containing heat pipes were in good agreement. Given that the results of an economic feasibility study were positive in terms of payback time, the proposed system is practical and realistic. (c) 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1197-1207, 2015