Thermal simulations of a CPV point focus module using Comsol Multiphysics

L.A. Oliverio, G. Timò, A. Minuto, P. Groppelli,

"Thermal simulations of a CPV point focus module using Comsol Multiphysics",

Proceedings of the Solar Energy Tech 2010,

8th July 2010, Milano, Italy, pp.55-64,

ISBN 978-1-4467-3765-1

Abstract:

An investigation of the thermal performance of a Concentrating Photovoltaic (CPV) Point Focus module is presented. The modeling activity is based on Comsol Multiphysics software environment which uses the Finite Element Method (FEM). The goal of the simulation is to improve the module thermal management in order to reduce the solar cell’s temperature. The possibility to reduce the use of row material, in particular for the receiver, in order to reduce the module’s cost without affecting the cell’s temperature is also investigated. 2D and 3D models are realized and validated thanks to experimental indoor and outdoor measurements. The results of the FEM simulations show that an optimization of light spot area on the cell along with a better thermal contact downside the cell can lead to a significant reduction of cell’s operative temperature. A minimization of the quantity of copper and aluminum used for dissipating the heat can be obtained without increasing the cell working temperature.

References:

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