Photovoltaic panels are exposed to both aerodynamic and thermal loads. Wind produces pressure differences and resulting forces on the panels and supporting structure, while solar radiation and convective cooling determine the operating temperature of the modules.
FlowMotion used CFD to analyse the airflow around photovoltaic systems. The calculated pressure distribution was used to determine the local and resulting wind loads on the panels for relevant wind directions.
The same airflow also influences convective heat transfer from the panel surfaces. By combining the aerodynamic calculation with the thermal boundary conditions, the panel temperature and its spatial variation could be assessed.
The simulations therefore provided information for both structural loading and thermal performance, allowing different panel arrangements and installation geometries to be compared on a consistent physical basis.
