Predicting the Performance of Solar Energy Systems.

Abstract

This report presents a method for making an energy and life-cycle cost analysis of solar energy systems. A graphical method is presented for predicting the performance of solar domestic hot water systems, solar heating systems, and solar heating and cooling systems. Methods for selecting the optimum collector area based on life-cycle cost and for systematically making detailed design calculations using the Building Loads Analysis and System Thermodynamics (BLAST) computer simulation program are also presented. Practical considerations for solar system designs are discussed. The methods presented provide the required accuracy for both initial evaluations and final design calculations. Examples are provided throughout the text to aid in using the methods described. (Author)

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1977
Accession Number
ADA035608

Entities

People

  • D. C. Hittle
  • D. F. Holshouser
  • D. J. Leverenz
  • G. N. Walton

Organizations

  • Construction Engineering Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Computer Simulations
  • Computers
  • Cost Analysis
  • Efficiency
  • Energy Conservation
  • Energy Consumption
  • Energy Systems
  • Engineering
  • Engineers
  • Flux Density
  • Heat Energy
  • Heat Exchangers
  • Hot Water
  • Solar Energy
  • Solar Heating
  • Solar Radiation
  • Solar System

Fields of Study

  • Engineering

Readers

  • Business Analytics
  • Computational Modeling and Simulation
  • Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy Engineering.