Thermal Analysis of Solar Flat Plate Collector using Phase Change Material

Objective: The objective of the paper is to study the performance of solar flat plate collector using phase change material. Methods/analysis: A phase change material (PCM) was combined with the thermal energy storage system to study the performance of Integrated Collector Cum Storage Solar Water Heater (ICSSWH). The Latent Heat Storage (LHS) was preferred as it stores the excess thermal energy beyond the sunshine and releasing it when there is energy demand. There are many phase change materials that melt and solidify over a range of temperature, among that paraffin wax was selected as it is cost effective and provides better thermal efficiency for longer duration. Findings: Regardless of the daily operations, the Integrated Collector Cum Storage Solar Water Heater (ICSSWH) gives good thermal efficiency for longer duration by using paraffin wax. In contrast to the conventional solar water heater the integrated PCM storage tank with solar water heater is more efficient because of its large storage capacity, isothermal nature during the charging and discharging and smaller size. During the discharging process, the heat transfer fluid gained large amount of heat from the PCM and it withstood heat for nearly more than five hours. During the night, it was found that the Latent Heat Storage (LHS) was effective as it allows minimum energy losses and conservation of energy. The maximum water outlet temperature was achieved by using paraffin wax and so this PCM can be considered as the most beneficial for the solar application from techno-economical aspects. Application/Improvements: The mentioned thermal system is used for water heating and space heating as it is cost effective. The system can be further be modified by combining with Sensible Heat Storage (SHS) for better utilization of energy.