Design and Performance of a Novel Hybrid Photovoltaic–Thermal Collector with Pulsating Heat Pipe (PVTPHP)

Hybrid photovoltaic–thermal collectors (PVT) are cogeneration components that convert solar energy into both electricity and heat. Pulsating heat pipe (PHP) is a fast-responding, flexible and high-performance thermal-conducting device. The aim of this work is design and performance of a novel hybrid photovoltaic–thermal collector with pulsating heat pipe (PVTPHP) for improving the electrical efficiency, by reducing the photovoltaic panel's temperature, as well as taking advantage of the thermal energy produced. An experimental setup of PVTPHP is constructed, and its operating parameters are measured. The measured parameters include solar radiation intensity, ambient temperature, filling ratio, inclination angle, PV module temperature, open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current, condenser inlet temperature, condenser outlet temperature, water flow rate, fill factor, electrical efficiency, heat delivery and combined efficiency. The results show that this new design has given a good thermal and electric performance compared to the traditional PV and PVT.