Entropy generation of different panel radiator types: Design of experiments using response surface methodology (RSM)

Efficient use of energy is crucial to reduce the energy costs and also to reduce the greenhouse gases and the environmental pollution. The vast majority of energy consumption originates from heating needs. Therefore, efficient use of heating systems means less energy consumption, and also less emission to the environment. One fundamental way of reducing the energy used for heating purposes is to develop more efficient heating equipment. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of panel radiator type, operating temperature and flow rate of heating systems on heat transfer coefficient and entropy generation. In the present study, a mathematical model was developed using the Response Surface Method to determine the total heat transfer coefficient and entropy generation for three different types of panel radiators (pc-11, pccp-22 and pccpcp-33). The accuracy of the model was tested through validation experiments and thus the model was validated. The radiators were then evaluated using the validated model by determining the total heat transfer coefficient and entropy generation for feed water temperatures of 40 degrees C, 50 degrees C and 60 degrees C and flow rates of 7.5, 5 and 2.5 l/min. As a result, the most important parameter on the total heat transfer coefficient (U) was found to be the volumetric flow rate while the most effective parameter on entropy generation (Sgen) was the number of panels.