Optimization of thermal performance of LS-2 model parabolic solar trough collectors using advanced nanofluid blends
摘要
This investigation predominantly evaluates the thermal changes of the LS-2 model parabolic solar trough collector (PTC) under various functional conditions. It explores how different blends of base liquids—mono, binary, and ternary nanoparticles—influence the processing fluid. A total of ten models are designed and simulated utilizing ANSYS 23 Fluent. Additionally, different types of flow turbulence-stimulating inserts are taken in nine tubes, and their thermal performances are compared with a traditional PTC tube. Optical simulations are separately carried out for these models in Tonatiuh 2.2.4. In the case of mononanoparticle-based working fluid, copper oxide is used. For binary nanoparticles, fusions of copper oxide and aluminum oxide are explored, and for ternary nanoparticles, copper oxide, aluminum oxide, and graphene oxide are mingled in the base liquid with a 1% volume concentration. The flow rates of the working liquids range between 0.15 kg s–1 and 0.60 kg s–1. The outcomes are conveyed through a analytical comparison, showing highest improvements in thermal efficiency as 22.21% for Model-1 than Model-10 at Reynolds number = 4739.30. Similarly, Nusselt number and thermal performance factor enhancements are 90.47% and 16.43%, respectively, for Model-10 with Nanofluid-12 than Nanofluid-1 at Reynolds number = 4739.30. Thus, this study offers an original viewpoint on electing the appropriate modified PTC model in terms of thermal performance.