Work

Improving PVT module efficiency with helical tape and magnetic cooling under dust deposition

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study explores the innovative integration of a conical helical tape within the duct of a PVT (photovoltaic-thermal) module, coupled with a TEG (thermoelectric generator) layer. The research evaluates the influence of magnetic forces on system performance, particularly in relation to dust accumulation. Key parameters analyzed include the Hartmann number (Ha), nanoparticle concentration (ϕ), and dust deposition (W d ), along with their impact on efficiency metrics (η PV , η TEG , and η th ). Findings reveal that dust accumulation contributes to panel cooling, thereby improving PV efficiency. The introduction of a magnetic field further enhances cooling, leading to better PV performance. However, as Ha and W d increase, TEG efficiency declines. Specifically, η PV decreases by 26.93% due to increased W d , while η TEG and η th drop by 17.45% and 9.78%, respectively. In dust-free conditions, a rise in Ha results in reductions of η TEG and ηth by up to 8.21% and 2.91%. Additionally, a higher Ha reduces PV temperature and improves temperature uniformity by approximately 5.56% in dusty conditions and 4.89% without dust, though its effectiveness diminishes as W d increases. The incorporation of nanoparticles into the cooling water enhances all efficiency parameters. For a velocity of V in = 0.02, increasing Ha leads to efficiency improvements of approximately 0.33%, 9.07%, and 3.7% for η PV , η TEG , and η th , respectively. In the absence of the Lorentz force, a rise in V in results in efficiency gains of about 2.12%, 74.29%, and 23.34% for η PV , η TEG , and η th , respectively.

Source: Case Studies in Thermal Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.csite.2025.106346