Experimental and numerical study of thermal stratification in a mantle tank of a solar domestic hot water system

The simulation and the optimisation of the mantle tank of solar domestic hot water systems needs dynamic simulation over long periods of time (e.g. 1 year). A model for such a mantle tank was developed by using the zonal approach. The dimensions of the zones are determined based on physical considerations. A mixing coefficient is identified to model the water flow in the mantle heat exchanger. Comparisons of the results of temperatures distribution of the model and of experiments show a difference <7% for three positions of the inlet water flow in the mantle heat exchanger. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.