Energy and exergy analyses of solar heating system

The present work establishes a model for solar heating system on the basis of energy transfer process. The model divides solar heating system into five major components, which are collectors, heat exchanger, auxiliary heat source, pipes and hot water storage tank, radiation ends. Methods on the thermal efficiency and exergy efficiency calculation of the major components and the system are known from energy and exergy analyses. The analysis is applied to a practical example, and the system's exergy flow diagram is plotted as well. According to the example, heat loss mainly occurs in the collectors. Only 4.3% of the total exergy entering the system is delivered to users. Exergy loss mainly occurs in the collectors, auxiliary heat source and radiation ends. The results are of guiding significance to the energy-saving and optimization of solar heating system.