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Computational modeling of high-concentration solar systems using ANSYS-Fluent: Verified models, implemented methods, & existing challenges

Research Abstract

Solar energy is a clean, abundant, and sustainable power source that forms the foundation of energy sustainability. Researchers have focused on examining various factors affecting solar energy generation and storage to improve the efficiency of solar collectors. They have evaluated different design criteria, considering environmental elements such as wind speed, solar radiation, and ambient temperature. Both experimental methods and numerical simulations, including Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), have been used. ANSYS-Fluent CFD modeling, in particular, provides a cost-effective alternative to experiments by simulating fluid flow and heat transfer within solar collectors. This article reviews recent advances in numerical modeling of concentrating solar systems, using ANSYS-Fluent, detailing the models and methods employed while discussing current challenges. It covers various solar concentrators, including evacuated tube collectors (ETC), Linear Fresnel reflectors (LFR), Compound Parabolic Collectors (CPC), and Solar Towers (ST). Summaries of previous studies are tabulated, highlighting different CFD models, techniques, and assumptions. The main goals and results of these studies are outlined. The article also discusses validation techniques and compares experimental data with simulation outcomes, assessing the employed numerical models and methods. It emphasizes common physical models, solution strategies, and assumptions used in analyzing different solar concentrating systems. Additionally, it identifies current challenges, suggests future research directions, and offers perspectives to help advance understanding. This work aims to support researchers in understanding current trends in the numerical simulation of high-concentration solar collectors. Scholars can use this resource to select appropriate models and methods, leveraging their strengths and avoiding common pitfalls in CFD analysis of solar collectors with ANSYS-Fluent.

Research Authors
AS Abdelrazik, MA Sharafeldin, Mohamed Elwardany, AM Masoud, Abdelwahab N Allam, Bashar Shboul, Ahmed O Eissa, Mansur Aliyu
Research Date
Research Journal
Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews
Research Pages
116305
Research Publisher
Elsevier
Research Rank
1
Research Vol
226
Research Website
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1364032125009785
Research Year
2026