Analysis of Polymeric Solar-thermal Collectors in Drain Back Systems by Simulation
Abstract
Polymeric solar-thermal collectors combine positive engineering properties and attractive cost saving potentials. However, volumetric absorbers made from polymers require open, non-pressurised systems in order to resist the typical loads acting on such a setup. The drain back principle is able to meet these requirements but demands higher pump capacities and additional components. This papers analyses the thermal behavior of polymer-based drain back systems in simulation studies based on MATLAB/Simulink and compares it with the performance of conventional metal-based solar-thermal systems. The results indicate a lower maximum collector temperature for the drain back system compared to the conventional setup as well as a slight decrease in the system efficiency.
Keywords
Polymeric collector, Solar-thermal system, Drain back system, Simulation, Matlab/simulink