Numerical analysis on the thermal performance of a roof-integrated flat-plate solar collector assembly

A numerical experiment has been carried out to study the thermal performance of a large solar collector assembly, which could be integrated as part of the roof structure without undue difficulties. The collector assembly consists of a network of riser tubes and headers as if rows of flat-plate collectors are connected in series to form a large flat-plate collector. Results show that the thermal efficiency of the collector assembly is mainly influenced by the number of riser tubes, collector aspect ratio (H/W), mass flow rate, thermal conductivity and thickness of absorber plate. Differences in the range of 2.5%–8% were detected depending on the specific parameter tested.