Thermal Management in Solar Air Heater Using Tailored Heat Waves: Heat Transfer Enhancement and Flow Analysis

This study investigates thermal management in a solar air heater using tailored heat waves to enhance heat transfer performance. Specially designed wave-shaped surface geometries are introduced on the absorber plate to disturb the boundary layer, increase turbulence, and improve convective heat transfer. The modified design is evaluated based on thermal efficiency, Nusselt number, friction factor, and thermo-hydraulic performance. Results indicate that tailored heat waves significantly improve heat transfer and overall effectiveness compared to conventional smooth-duct solar air heaters, making the system more suitable for drying, space heating, and industrial air preheating applications.