Enhancing Photovoltaic/Thermal system performance through innovative cooling tube design and water flow management

Abstract

This research addresses the challenge of elevated temperatures impacting the performance of photovoltaic (PV) panels, considering both the dimensions of the cooling tube and the flow of water. A comprehensive analysis of various water flow rates is conducted using three tubes (tube 1, tube 2, and tube 3) with cross-sections of 100.27, 148.27, and 202.27 mm 2 and 15, 11, and 9 loops, respectively. The numerical results reveal a significant 41.66% reduction in PV cell temperature, decreasing from 60 °C to 35 °C using tube 3 at a flow rate of 7.5 L/min, reflecting high electrical performance and efficiency. Meanwhile, at a flow rate of 1.5 L/min, tube 1 delivers optimum hot water at the outlet with a temperature of 55.6 °C. The proposed design significantly contributes to PV cell efficiency, emphasizing the impact of cooling tube dimensions on the overall efficiency of the PV/T system. This study introduces an innovative approach using a flat oval tube to minimize temperature elevation and simultaneously generate hot water. The innovative PV/T system demonstrates potential advancements in thermal management and lays the foundations for future sustainable energy applications.