Impact of Artificial Roughness Enhancers on Solar Air Heater Performance: A Review

Abstract

Solar air heaters have gained significant attention as an efficient and sustainable means of harnessing solar energy for various heating applications. However, adding artificial roughness to heat transfer surfaces enhances their performance. These roughness enhancers are strategically designed to improve heat transfer and increase the overall thermal effectiveness of the system. These roughness-enhancing geometries include rib roughness, vortex generators, wire coils, and various other configurations. The effects of these enhancers on pressure drop, heat transfer, and thermal performance are thoroughly analyzed and discussed. This review consolidates the existing knowledge in the field, presenting a comprehensive overview of the various roughness geometries, parameter ranges, and optimum data. The findings of the present work can act as a valued resource for investigators working on designing and optimizing air heating systems using solar energy.