Modeling a solar energy collector with an integrated phase-change material

Abstract

In this thesis, a finite-element computer model was created to simulate a solar air heater with an integrated-phase change material. The commercially available finite element package ADINA-Fluid was used to generate the model that captures the fundamental physical processes which are necessary in accurately simulate the system. These processes include convective and radiative losses between the working fluid and device. Time varying loads to simulate the available solar energy that can be collected over the course of a day. Most importantly the phase-change material. This was accomplished by defining a material with a temperature-dependent specific heat. The simulation yielded positive results to its validity and can now be used to test different physical geometries and material before a prototype of the solar air heater is produced.