A novel multi-layer manifold microchannel cooling system for concentrating photovoltaic cells

Using concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) cells is an effective method for the low-cost photovoltaic conversion. However, higher temperature and non-uniform surface temperature distribution will result in the electrical output decline of CPV cells and shorten their life time. To obtain higher net output power of CPV cells and prolong their life time, we designed a novel multi-layer manifold microchannel cooling system to effectively lower the cell surface temperature and improve the uniformity of surface temperature distribution. Thermal image analysis indicated that the surface temperature difference of the CPV cells was below 6.3 °C. The multi-layer manifold microchannel had a heat transfer coefficient of 8235.84 W/m2 K and its pressure drop was lower than 3 kPa. The results show that the hybrid CPV cells have a satisfactory net output power due to their lower pumping power and the higher electrical output of CPV cells.