Design, Test, and Comparison of a Photovoltaic Thermal Hybrid Solar Collector Utilizing a Thermosiphon, and Theory and Analysis of Related Predictive Computer Model

Author

Lance BrownFollow

Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/2979

Date of Award

3-2025

Degree Name

MS in Mechanical Engineering

Department/Program

Mechanical Engineering

College

College of Engineering

Advisor

Jacques Belanger

Advisor Department

Mechanical Engineering

Advisor College

College of Engineering

Abstract

Design, construction and testing of a photovoltaic thermal collector, or PVT, was completed to determine efficiency improvements of this system compared to a conventional solar panel and to find the thermal energy gained through hot water storage. Flow, driven by density changes from solar radiation, creates a thermosiphon, moving water without the use of a pump and ultimately drawing heat away from the solar panel. This is done to create a more efficient solar panel as well as decreasing potential damage due to high temperatures. Evaluation of electrical efficiency, thermal efficiency and flowrate allow for comparison between other PVT systems. Finally, a computer model of the constructed PVT system was also created to predict solar panel, heat exchanger manifold and plumbing temperatures as well as electricity generated by using starting temperature data and transient measures of ambient temperature and solar radiation. Multiple full day tests were conducted to determine performance characteristics of this system compared to a standard solar panel. Results from this thesis show little electrical efficiency gains but show a noticeable heat generation rate that was comparable to other studies. As a result of this heat removal, panel temperatures in the PVT are lower than a conventional solar panel. Flowrate was measured and fell between expected values. Finally, model error was minimal and predicts the behavior of the system with most error below 10%.