Performance Deterioration of Thermosiphon Solar Water Heater due to Scaling

Arunachala, U C (2011) Performance Deterioration of Thermosiphon Solar Water Heater due to Scaling. IIUM Engineering Journal, 12 (3). ISSN 1511-788X

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Abstract

The performance of Flat plate Solar Water Heater deteriorates within five to twelve years of their installation due to factors related to manufacturing, operating conditions, lack of maintenance etc. Especially, problem due to scaling is significant as it is based on quality of water used. The remaining factors are system dependent and could be overcome by quality production. Software is developed by incorporating Hottel Whillier Bliss (H-W-B) equation to ascertain the effect of scaling on system efficiency in case of thermosiphon system. In case of clean thermosiphon system, the instantaneous efficiency calculated at 1000 W/m2 radiation is 72 % and it drops to 46 % for 3.7 mm scale thickness.The mass flow rate is reduced by 90 % for 3.7 mm scale thickness. Whereas, the average temperature drop of water in the tank is not critical due to considerable heat content in water under severe scaled condition. But practically in case of major scale growth, some of the risers are likely to get blocked completely which leads to negligible temperature rise in the tank.

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