Numerical simulation of a novel Trombe wall-assisted desiccant wheel

Abstract

In the present study, a novel Trombe wall-assisted desiccant wheel system is modeled, in which the trombe wall is divided into three equal parts and provides the heat required for regeneration of the desiccant wheel. Separate mathematical models have been proposed for different components of the system such as desiccant wheel and Trombe wall. The mathematical models of different parts have been assembled. Effects of the geometrical parameters of the Trombe wall on the regeneration temperature of the desiccant wheel have been investigated based on the integrated model. The results of the present study for some special cases have been compared with results available in open literature. The optimal surface area of the Trombe wall has been extracted according to the parameters of the desiccant wheel. Results show that the solar energy received by the Trombe wall is 600-740 W / m 2 (1 May-15 August) in the warm and humid climate of Gilan (Iran), the temperature of the wall surface is obtained 77-86°C, and the outlet temperature of regeneration air stream from Trombe wall is obtained 60-70°C; however, the output humidity of the desiccant wheel is reduced from 23 g^/kga to 10-12 g^/kga in the studied region (Gilan, Iran).