Performance evaluation of a v-groove solar air collector for drying applications

This paper reports the results of a performance study on v-groove solar air collector for drying applications. Experimental results indicate better thermal efficiency for a v-corrugated collector compared to a flat plate collector. Effects of operating variables on the thermal performance have been investigated. The results show that the temperature of the fluid at the exit of the collector decreases with flow rate resulting in an increase of efficiency due to decreased thermal losses to the environment. After a certain flow rate, these changes become less significant. Flow rate of 0.035 kg/m2 s is recommended for most drying purposes in consideration of collector efficiency and outlet temperature.