Enhancing Air-Based PVT Performance: A numerical and experimental assessment of V-Baffle designs

The efficiency and lifetime of Photovoltaic cells degrade with elevated temperature levels over time. Cooling the cells contributes positively to their performance and their lifespan. Heat transfer enhancement techniques using thermal inserts, such as baffles, have been investigated widely within Solar Air Heater research. However, these strategies have not yet been applied to Photovoltaic Thermal technology for such cooling purposes, despite their potential benefits. In this study, V-shaped baffles inspired from Solar Air Heaters are evaluated in the context of Air-Based Photovoltaic Thermal for the first time. A prototype was experimentally tested to validate a Computational Fluid Dynamics model. To further improve the thermohydraulic performance of baffles, a novel design was developed, that of smooth V-baffles. In general, a decrease of 8 C ° on average was achieved by the cooling baffles. The new design exhibited a higher Thermal Enhancement Factor than that of the straight edge equivalents, up to 22% higher. Additionally, it was indicated that the use of baffles can be beneficial for Photovoltaic Thermal systems, by achieving a more uniform temperature distribution of the photovoltaic cells, up to 47%. This minimizes the formation of hot zones along the photovoltaic surface. • A decrease of 8 C ° on average was achieved by the cooling baffles. • Heat output increased by an estimated 25% with baffles. • Thermal Enhancement Factor of new smooth baffle up to 22% higher than counterparts. • Up to 49% more uniform PV temperature distribution achieved.