Thermal modelling of a photovoltaic module under variable free convection conditions

A thermal model regarding a photovoltaic module has been developed and validated using experimental data. The aim of this study was to obtain the temperature field of a BP 585 F module mounted at different distances from a roof wall, as well as the temperature and velocity profiles of the air at the exit section between the panel and the wall. The influence of the mounting distance on the temperature and velocity values was also studied. The simulation is done by applying the Galerkin finite element method to the flow and energy equations, incorporating an implicit convective boundary condition. The results show a good accuracy of the model.

► A two-dimensional steady-state thermal model of a photovoltaic module is studied.
► The air flow in the channel formed by the module and the mounting wall is examined.
► Due to the radiation and convection two boundary layers are formed.
► Velocity and temperature profiles depend on the boundary layer interaction.
► Increasing channel width leads to unexpected shape of velocity and temperature.