Dynamic simulation and energy analysis of forced circulation solar thermal system in two various climate cities in Iraq

• Main Authors: Hayder S. Al-Madhhachi, Ahmed M. Ajeena, Nihad A. Al-Bughaebi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: AIMS Press 2021-04-01
• Series: AIMS Energy
• Subjects: solar energy; trnsys; solar thermal system; thermal efficiency; simulation
• Online Access: https://www.aimspress.com/article/doi/10.3934/energy.2021008?viewType=HTML

This study aimed towards an essential subject in the field of solar energy. The sun is a free clean energy source. This research presents the modeling and simulating of forced circulation solar thermal system for domestic hot water production in Iraq. The TRNSYS dynamic simulation program was chosen as the primary research tool. The TRNSYS model comprises component (collectors, controls, storage tanks, circulation pump, solar radiation processor, printer, equations, and integrators). The study was conducted in two different regions in Iraq (Baghdad and Basrah). The model investigated in many aspects, such as provide the demand of hot water for a family (ten persons) by using 10 m² of flat plate collector, stratification effect in a storage tank on the collector's thermal efficiency, and effect of hot domestic water different consumption on solar thermal system performance. Results present that the system could provide hot water demand in Baghdad (67–81% and 39–62%) and Basrah (69–82% and 49–66%) in summer and winter, respectively, by using solar energy. The maximum auxiliary energy was used during the cold months are (2980 MJ/month) in Baghdad and (2607 MJ/month) in Basrah. There was an increase in the isothermal layers in the storage tank due to a rise in collector efficiency. There was a higher performance of forced circulation solar thermal systems (SDHW) when the domestic hot water consumption is lower.