Computation of irradiance in a solar still by using a refined algorithm

Madhlopa, Amos and Clarke, Joseph Andrew (2013) Computation of irradiance in a solar still by using a refined algorithm. Renewable Energy, 51. pp. 13-21. ISSN 0960-1481

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    Abstract

    A refined solar algorithm from the ESP-r system has been used to calculate the distribution of solar irradiation inside a basin-type solar still. In the approach, surface finish, view factors and multiple reflections are taken into consideration in the computation of the solar radiation that reaches the surface of the saline water in the distillation system. The algorithm was applied to a solar still tested at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow (55 520 N, 4 150 W). Under the prevailing meteorological conditions, it was found that previous models overestimated the computed solar load on the saline water surface. The present modelling approach is demonstrated to exhibit a higher degree of accuracy than previous methods for irradiance distribution prediction, yielding new insights into approaches to solar still performance improvement. The modelling outcomes are presented and discussed.

    Creators(s): Madhlopa, Amos and Clarke, Joseph Andrew ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4783-5107;
    Item type:Article
    ID code:43076
    Keywords:effective irradiance, radiation exchange, multiple reflections, Mechanical engineering and machinery, Building construction, Computational Mechanics, Modelling and Simulation, Water Science and Technology
    Subjects:Technology > Mechanical engineering and machinery
    Technology > Building construction
    Department:Faculty of Engineering > Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
    Depositing user: Pure Administrator
    Date deposited:04 Mar 2013 10:22
    Last modified:02 Feb 2021 09:25
    Related URLs:
    URI:https://strathprints.strath.ac.uk/id/eprint/43076
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