Improving the Performance of a Photovoltaic-Thermal Panel by Utilizing Different Geometries

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry, Tehran, Iran

2 M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran

3 M.Sc. in Energy Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran

10.22059/ses.2025.391817.1126

Abstract

In this paper, various geometries are employed in the design of photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) systems to enhance their performance. The main objective is to investigate the impact of different flow configurations on heat transfer, thermal efficiency, and electrical efficiency of the system. This study examines four types of flow configurations, including the original model with 8 pipes, modified models with 6 and 10 pipes, and a dual-spiral flow configuration. Simulation results obtained using COMSOL software indicate that the dual-spiral flow configuration, when using water as the working fluid, provides the best performance in terms of electrical and thermal efficiency. In this case, the electrical efficiency reaches a maximum of 14.735%, while the thermal efficiency attains 34.164%. These values show a slight improvement compared to other configurations, including the 6-pipe system (14.567درصد and 30.139%), the 8-pipe system (14.676درصد and 32.641%), and the 10-pipe system (14.737درصد and 34.128%). Although the increase in electrical and thermal efficiency is not significantly higher than in other configurations, the results suggest that the dual-spiral configuration can be considered an optimal choice under specific conditions. This study also highlights the importance of proper geometric design in improving the performance of PVT systems and its impact on overall system efficiency. The findings can contribute to the development of innovative technologies and the enhancement of renewable energy system efficiency.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Journal of sustainable Energy Systems
Volume 4, Issue 3
July 2025
Pages 339-358

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