Experimental model validation of a hybrid PV/thermal air based collector with impinging jets

In order to increase the efficiency of an air-based hybrid Photovoltaic/Thermal solar collector, a high heat transfer coefficient can be achieved between the absorber plate and the air by using impinging jets. A predictive model of a PV/Thermal collector using impinging jets was developed, and a prototype was built and operated at an outdoor facility in order to validate and test the model capabilities. Overall, the model was found to produce relatively accurate results. Over 8 days of testing, the worst total daily energy model predictions were within 10% and 11% of the experimental value for the thermal and electrical outputs, respectively. The influence of time step and thermal mass on the accuracy of the model were examined. (C) 2012 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.