Desenvolvimento de software para projeto e sistemas centralizados de aquecimento solar de água

Abstract

This current paper refers to the development of a piece of software for optimized project of water heating systems by means of the utilization of solar energy. It is a computer tool created to help engineering companies with solar heating systems projects (SAS), using commercial equipment performance data from the Programa Brasileiro de Etiquetagem (PBE) - Brazilian Labeling Program - and solar radiation data from the Atlas Solarimétrico Brasileiro Brazilian Solar Energy Atlas. Throughout the development of the software some methodologies have been used as well as practical relationships aiming at the optimization of the installation with the binomial economy-reliability. The software makes available to designers the possibility of simulating installations with up to four collectors in series, aiming at better hydraulic balance and, consequently, better installation performance. The project methodology used was F-Chart, followed by an economic analysis with relevant information about profitability and investment risk. The software was initially developed on an EXCEL plan, being then implemented in C++. Validation of the software has been performed by means of comparative studies of an example from Duffie and Beckman s book (1991) and a project carried out at UFRGS (Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul), in which the programs Termodim e Radiasol were used, both developed by that university. The software has presented a small deviation in relation to previous simulations, which needs to be investigated in the future in order to identify its causes. As well as F-Chart, the software developed in this dissertation, called Helios-Chart, will have to be used for active direct systems of medium to large-sized installations.