Influence of constructive and operating parameters on a modified Trombe wall efficiency

Abstract

The paper presents an analysis of efficiency of the modified Trombe wall with forced convection that could be operating in four different modes. The analyzed system comprises a double glass glazing, and a massive wall with an opening and central channel in it. In order to increase the efficiency, a fan is provided at the bottom vent of the wall. It is more advanced as compared with simple Trombe solar wall with a relatively low thermal resistance, which is taken as a reference in experimental analysis. The mathematical model, composed for the massive solar wall efficiency, is usually very complicated and assessment of the thermal behaviour requires the use of thermal simulation techniques. This paper presents steady-state and one-dimensional mathematical model for simplified analysis of thermal efficiency of modified Trombe solar wall that is working in heating mode. The results from presenting model were analyzed to predict the effects of variations in the constructive and operating parameters on the efficiency. The obtained results were used for simple and fast running design tools that designers can use in the early phases of the design process for calculations of efficiency of the active solar heating systems.