DESIGN AND SIMULATION OF A SOLAR THERMAL HEATING SYSTEM

This report is based on the design and simulation of a solar thermal system that can be used for the provision of hot water in domestic and office applications. The increasing cost of conventional sources of energy coupled with the unreliability of the electricity supply has created problems in the provision of hot water services. The problem can be solved using solar energy, which is sustainable in this context. The main goal of this study was to design an optimal solar thermal system for the provision of hot water services. The system was designed using a flat-plate solar collector, storage tank, pump, and control unit. The mathematical models of the system's thermal behavior were formulated, after which the system was simulated using numerical methods. The system's parameters, including mass flow rate, tilt angle of the solar collector, and insulation properties, were varied to assess their impact on the system's performance. Simulation results indicated that it was possible for the system to produce enough hot water for domestic and office use. The system also indicated improved thermal efficiency for lower flow rates and optimized collector orientation. The study also indicated that improved system insulation reduced losses and improved system performance. In conclusion, the designed solar thermal heating system proved to be an effective and environmentally friendly solution for hot-water supply. The optimization analysis provides useful guidelines for improving system efficiency and adapting the design for practical implementation in similar climatic regions.