DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF A PASSIVE SOLAR WATER HEATER
Abstract
Before solar energy can be effectively used in a heating or cooling system, it must first be transformed to heat as electromagnetic radiation from the sun is transferred through space to the earth. A surface that effectively absorbs radiation and transforms this incident flux into heat, raising the temperature of the absorbing material, is typically the component of solar energy collectors, the devices used to convert the sun’s radiation to heat.It is essential to conduct sufficient study on the solar heating system in order to offer the best design for enhancing performance and reducing energy expenses. The aim of this work is to provide energy for domestic and industrial water heating, to disseminate knowledge to potential users and for commercial purposes, and to make pertinent recommendations based on the findings of the research in order to increase the effectiveness of the solar water heating system. This research project used locally accessible resources to design and build a solar water heating system. A flat plate collector that has an absorber plate constructed of galvanized sheet with measurements of 110 cm in length, 80 cm in breadth, and 0.7 mm in thickness receives solar energy. The zigzag-pipe is attached to the sheet, painted a dull black color, combined with fluid-carrying tubes, and set inside an insulated case with a transparent glass cover that includes a storage tank as part of the system. Because the glass can’t let the radiation emitted by the absorber plate pass through it, its temperature rises. The thermosyphon principle is used to heat the water as it enters the storage tank.August 2017 saw the system put to the test. On a sunny day, between the hours of 1:00 and 2:00 pm, the highest temperature of the heated water and collector surface temperature of 85 0C and 75 0C, respectively, were measured. In both households and businesses, this solar water heating device is useful. In areas with ample and reliable sunlight, the solar water heater can be employed. The insulation layer should be built of styrofoam because of its increased capacity to prevent heat loss, and a separate tank should be supplied for the heated water, according to the research work.
Introduction to Chapter One:
1.1 Background to the Study
Renewable energy sources, of which the sun is an excellent example, are those whose replenishment rates are quicker than their rates of use or depletion within a relatively short period of time. The nuclear fusion of the sun’s hydrogen into helium produces energy, with a consequent mass depletion rate of roughly 4.7 106 tons per second. The total amount of electricity required by the planet’s population is currently 15 TW, but only 120,000 TW of solar radiation really reaches the planet continuously (Bradke et al., 2011). As a result, just a small portion of the sun’s energy will be enough to meet the majority of the planet’s energy needs.
Before solar energy can be effectively used in a heating or cooling system, it must first be transformed to heat as electromagnetic radiation from the sun is transferred through space to the earth. The size of a system required to convert solar energy to heat must be quite huge since solar energy is relatively diluted before it reaches the ground. A surface that effectively absorbs radiation and transforms this incident flux into heat, raising the temperature of the absorbing material, is typically the component of solar energy collectors, the devices used to convert the sun’s radiation to heat. The heat transfer fluid, which may be liquid or gaseous, is then used to extract some of this energy from the absorbing surface. The flat-plate collector is one of the most straightforward solar energy collectors that may be constructed (Nosa et al., 2013).
Any climate can use solar water heaters. The amount of solar energy available at the site and the temperature of the water entering the system both affect performance. The mechanism works more effectively when the water is cooler. You’ll need a traditional backup system in almost all climes. In fact, having a conventional water heater as a backup is mandated by many construction requirements.
Even in Nigeria, individuals from various regions frequently leave water outside so that after it warms up, it can be utilized for bathing, drinking, and other thermal comforts. Today, it is evident that solar energy, and solar water heaters in particular, have undergone a number of adjustments for greater efficiency.
1.2 Statement of the Issue
Residential solar technology has been around since the 1970s as a result of the rising cost of energy consumption, which is primarily utilized for heating and cooling and represents the largest operational expense in residential structures. After that, numerous efforts to reduce the cost of heating and cooling energy were made. The fundamental elements of a solar heating system are the same, even though the features of each unique system differ. According to Shurcliff (1979), it should at the very least have a collector for solar energy collection, heat storage, and a heat circulation system.
Therefore, sufficient research must be done on the solar heating system in order to offer the best design for enhancing performance and reducing energy expenses.
1.3 Purpose and Objectives
The creation of a low-cost solar water heater with a high proportion of locally accessible materials is the primary goal of this effort. The following are the goals of this work: (i) To supply energy for heating water for home and industrial use.
(ii) To make the information available to potential users and for economic gain.
To increase the effectiveness of the solar water heating system, (iii) on the basis of the research’s findings, provide pertinent recommendations.
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