CFD Analysis and Optimization of Fin-Enhanced Cooling Systems for Enhanced PV Performance

Year : 2025 | Volume : 12 | Issue : 01 | Page : 1-15
    By

    Jahangir Alam,

  • H. S. Sahu,

  1. M Tech Scholar, Department of Mathematics, Mittal Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
  2. Assistant professor, Department of Mathematics, Mittal Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

This study examines how the performance of photovoltaic (PV) panels can be improved by means of passive cooling techniques through fin configurations. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation, validated with experimental data, was used to analyse the thermal behaviour of PV modules integrated with different fin shapes, namely rectangular, trapezoidal, and triangular geometries. It was found that trapezoidal fins yield better thermal performance, lowering the panel temperature by more than that of rectangular and triangular designs. Parametric investigations into the number, thickness, and length of the fins confirm that more fin numbers and larger dimensions enhance cooling performance. In particular, the trapezoidal shape attained a 7.59% enhancement in the cooling effectiveness at 20 fins. The results bring forth an opportunity for application-specific designs of fins, thus enhancing the efficiency with minimal degradation due to elevated temperatures. Although photovoltaic (PV) systems are essential for producing sustainable energy, rising temperatures have a major impact on their effectiveness. PV modules’ electrical conversion efficiency is decreased by excessive heat. One practical way to lessen the effects of heat is to use fin-enhanced cooling systems. Fin-enhanced cooling systems for PV modules are analysed and optimised in this work using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). In order to optimise heat dissipation, the research focusses on assessing fins’ thermal performance, energy efficiency, and design changes. The findings show that improved fin geometries and configurations significantly increase cooling efficiency, which boosts PV performance.

Keywords: Photovoltaic cooling, passive cooling, fin optimization, CFD analysis, thermal management, renewable energy.

[This article belongs to Recent Trends in Fluid Mechanics ]

How to cite this article:
Jahangir Alam, H. S. Sahu. CFD Analysis and Optimization of Fin-Enhanced Cooling Systems for Enhanced PV Performance. Recent Trends in Fluid Mechanics. 2025; 12(01):1-15.
How to cite this URL:
Jahangir Alam, H. S. Sahu. CFD Analysis and Optimization of Fin-Enhanced Cooling Systems for Enhanced PV Performance. Recent Trends in Fluid Mechanics. 2025; 12(01):1-15. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rtfm/article=2025/view=193273


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Regular Issue Subscription Case Study
Volume 12
Issue 01
Received 26/12/2024
Accepted 02/01/2025
Published 08/01/2025
Publication Time 13 Days
Total Visits: 119


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