PREDICTION OF SOLAR AIR HEATER THERMAL PERFORMANCE.

Agreement between computed values and measured values of prediction parameters indicated that the first two parameters could be adequately predicted for use in collector design, but the collector loss coefficient predictions did not agree with measured values. The measured values consisted of a steady-state thermal performance test using the ASHRAE Standard 93-77 as a guide, this same steady-state test but additionally using measured average plate temperature for computing the loss coefficient, a cloudless sky night test using heated air input to achieve approximately the same plate temperature and a computed value of the loss coefficient using a measured top loss coefficient from a similar absorber plate which was electrically heated.