Cascade Connection of Solar Collectors for Effective Energy Gain

Abstract

The theoretical analysis and optimization of two different types of solar collectors connected in series are presented. The energetical approach to the cascade system with two types of collectors has revealed the importance of the product of the collector efficiency factor and the optical efficiency. If the value of the first collector is larger than that of the succeeding one, then the cascade system is found to be more effective than using either one of the collectors alone. Furthermore, the optimum operating conditions for the system including the determination of the suitable area ratio can be uniquely obtained from the consideration of the maximum exergy gain.