P.V. PANEL WIND LOAD EFFECTS

NOVEMBER 2010

Arman Hemmati , Brady Zaiser, Chaneel Park, Jeff Symons, Katie Olver

Class Presentation #1

NOVEMBER - 2010Design Review #1: DeLoPREC

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Overview

• Introduction (Katie)

• Wind Tunnel Tests (Chaneel)

• Computational Analysis (Arman)

• What’s Next (Arman)

NOVEMBER - 2010Design Review #1: DeLoPREC

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Introduction – ENMAX Frames

Renusol ConSole

DIY Frame

NOVEMBER - 2010Design Review #1: DeLoPREC

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Introduction – Problem

• Most efficient sun capture at 51°

• Higher angle means greater aerodynamic forces

• More ballast required to hold the panel down

• Too much weight for the roof?

• Want to better understand wind loads on PV panels:

▫ Wind Tunnel Testing▫ Computational (CFD) Analysis

NOVEMBER - 2010Design Review #1: DeLoPREC

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Wind Tunnel – Model Scaling/Building

1. Constructing a suitable model (6 linear panel array)▫ The size of the model must correspond to the

dimensions of the wind tunnel▫ What material should be used as a PV panel substitute▫ Require a base frame for the model to rest upon

2. Methods for analyzing the force on the panel▫ Force Receiving Base▫ Pressure Distribution is not a concern▫ Force transducers or load cells considered

(although potentially expensive)

NOVEMBER - 2010Design Review #1: DeLoPREC

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Wind Tunnel – Testing (conceptual)

1. Height of the panel from the roof (Frame Bottom Opening)▫ Least Loads: Test the model at various heights

2. Variation of wind speed▫ Wind Speed Effect: The relationship between wind

speed, drag/lift forces, and additional load on the roof

3. Wind angle of attack▫ Flexible Model: The model is angled to represent

varying wind angle of attack▫ Methods for model force Analysis

▫ Methods for model force Analysis

NOVEMBER - 2010Design Review #1: DeLoPREC

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Computational – 2D vs. 3D Modeling

Courtesy of COMSOL Multiphysics

1. Two-Dimensional (2D) Models▫ Easier to develop, evaluate, and understand▫ Typically the start of an analysis▫ Provides a general overview to the forces expected in the

wind tunnel

2. Three-Dimensional (3D) Models▫ More Difficult to set-up, and develop▫ More powerful computers required▫ More realistic model of the actual phenomena▫ Typically used to compare to the wind tunnel testing

NOVEMBER - 2010Design Review #1: DeLoPREC

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What’s Next – Conclusion

1. Current Stage in the Design Process▫ Direction is set, details required

2. Plan on Wind Tunnel Test▫ Model design details▫ Method of measurement: Literature research

3. Plan on CFD▫ Program and computer availability▫ Starting with a 2D Model

4. Revised Frame Design▫ Only if current design fails

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References

• Renusol ConSole Manual 9/2009

• COMSOL Multiphysics Website

• ANSYS Website

NOVEMBER - 2010Design Review #1: DeLoPREC

www.ucalgary.ca/deloprec