Analysis and Performance improvements of Photovoltaic system by using fins for heat reduction by CFD

Abstract

The efficiency and power output of the solar PV panel decreases with an increase in temperature. The efficiency of a monocrystalline photovoltaic panel decreases around 0.3% for every degree rise in temperature after 30 C. By using different techniques we can reduce temperature. A heat sink made up of aluminium plate with fins attached to the PV panel which enhances heat rejection. The analysis of the system was done in computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The static and transient analysis was done and an optimal heat sink was designed. The silicon plate which is designed to simulate the PV panel was maintained at a temperature of 60 C for the analysis. It was found that the optimal fins of heat sink have 1.5 mm thickness and each of 40 mm height and 30 mm spacing between the fins and the natural air flow is maintained through the fins which is parallel to fins. There is a reduction in temperature of panel by 4 C in static conditions by natural convection.