Real‐time experimental performance, economic and environmental impact assessment of solar‐assisted vacuum deaeration heating system

Abstract This research evaluates the performance of a solar‐assisted heating (SAH) system for makeup water in a vacuum deaeration process. The system integrates solar energy into the heating process, with parametric analysis conducted across varying water flow rates. Based on experimental outcomes, a TRNSYS simulation model was developed, followed by an assessment of the system's economic and environmental impacts. The analysis shows that a water flow rate of 0.4 LPM achieved the target temperature of 61°C for the deaeration process. Thermal efficiency peaked at 62.60% under solar radiation of 900 W/m 2 . The TRNSYS model aligned well with the experimental data, showing a root mean square error of 2.77°C for outlet water temperature and 3.54% for thermal efficiency. A hydraulic performance assessment based on pumping power and the performance evaluation criterion (PEC) indicates that the thermal performance enhancement outweighs any inferred hydraulic penalty under the investigated operating conditions. Economic analysis reveals a return‐on‐investment (ROI) period of 2.57 years and an annual reduction of 1.486 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO 2 e) emissions in the first year of operation. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the performance and economic feasibility of the SAH system for heating makeup water in the vacuum deaeration process.