esign and Numerical Investigation of a Small Scale Solar Chimney Using Computational Fluid Dynamics

In the current study, a solar shimney is analyzed and designed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The optimal dimensions of the chimney is determined. The chimney has a rectangular cross section and it is modeled in three-dimenstional space. The chimney has been modeled in various dimensions and with various geometric sections and impact of chimney geometries have been investigated on internal air flow and its performance. In addition to the geometry of the chimney effect, impact of change heat flux received from environment, entrance positive pressure and inlet air temperature were studied on outlet air mass flow rate from the chimney. The results indicated that there is optimum width in order to maximize air flow rate in the chimney. Optimum width is increased with Increase in inlet cross section, entrance pressure and chimney height in addition to increased air mass flow rate and performance improvement. The results of this plan can be used for appropriate design of a solar chimney and finally making it.