The invention introduces a solar heat collector combined with an integrated storage device using evacuated glass tubes. This system is designed to efficiently collect, store, and deliver solar heat as needed. It optimizes solar heat capture by concentrating radiation on the collector’s absorber surface and minimizes heat loss with innovative enclosure techniques.
Figure 1. Solar air heaters with EGT: from 30 to 150 - 250oC; Evacuated glass tube based solar collector 2.1 m2 ; Test Results: volfw.i 497 lpm, Qsc.i.9h 12.9 kWh, Qsc.9h 7.7 kWh, hsc.9h 61.8%
This invention enables the efficient collection, storage and delivery of solar energy to generate steam, heat fluids like air, water, thermic fluids, or process fluids without continuous tracking. Indoor cooling or sterilisation is possible using this solar steam generator (SSG) type, which delivers steam at 120oC without water pumps or sophisticated controls. Just opening a hand-operated valve can enable the modulation of steam flow. Cooking can be completed quickly by tapping the stored energy at the required rate. Once through water, air, or oil, heating is possible through large temperature differences. Ambient air can be heated to 300oC in a once-through mode. Oil can be heated to 150oC. The cost effective collectors are easy to deploy and maintain.
- Enhanced solar radiation capture: This invention utilizes all glass evacuated glass tubes, internal reflectors, and back insulation to enhance performance.
- Heat loss minimization: It employs insulation and strategic material placement to reduce thermal loss, maintaining more of the collected energy.
- Advanced heat storage solutions: It integrates sensible or latent heat storage mediums, enhancing energy retention and delivery at non-solar hours.
The prototypes have demonstrated effective heat capture and storage, with tests confirming the system’s ability to maintain high temperatures and deliver heat efficiently across various applications.
The solar collector with integrated heat storage is at TRL 6, with prototypes working in the field for steam generation. For oil heaters and air heaters, the TRL is 4. The technologies' cost-effectiveness can be demonstrated, followed by licensing for commercialisation.
- Solar collector with integrated heat storage: TRL 6
- Oil heaters and air heaters: TRL 4
By improving the efficiency and usability of solar collectors, this invention significantly reduces energy costs and carbon footprints. It supports broader adoption of renewable energy technologies, contributing to sustainable development goals. When used for residential and commercial cooking, it can save firewood, LPG or PNG. It can improve the standard of living for the rural masses. These collectors can improve the economics of agro-processing. Municipal solid waste processing plants can also benefit from these solar collectors.
- Residential and commercial heating: Provides sustainable heating solutions, reducing dependency on traditional energy sources
- Industrial applications: Useful in manufacturing and chemical processes requiring thermal energy, such as material drying or chemical reactions
- Agricultural sector: Supports drying processes and can be used to maintain optimal conditions for crop and produce storage
- Healthcare facilities
2088/MUM/2014
466212