Efficiency-focused numerical optimization and performance assessment of an air-based photovoltaic-thermal system

The design configuration of photovoltaic thermal (PVT) collectors plays a pivotal role in determining their overall performance. This study presents a numerical analysis of three fin geometries: circular, teardrop, and a newly proposed splined teardrop, integrated into an air-based PVT system. The influence of fin dimensions (9.67 mm, 7.73 mm, and 6.47 mm) and orientation angles ranging from 0º to 10º on thermal and electrical performance was systematically investigated. Key performance indicators were evaluated through controlled experimentation, including outlet air temperature, absorber surface temperature, and pressure drop. Among the configurations studied, the splined teardrop fin demonstrated the highest efficiency, achieving a combined thermal and electrical efficiency of 74.33%. A further enhancement to 77.23% was observed with the smallest fin size. In contrast, increasing the orientation angle to 10º reduced efficiency by approximately 5%. These findings underscore the critical influence of fin geometry and orientation on heat transfer enhancement and system efficiency, providing valuable insights for designing and optimizing high-performance PVT collectors.