Mathematical Modeling and Experimental Study for Summer Performance of Earth Air Heat Exchanger Integrated with a Solar Greenhouse

A simplified analytical model has been developed to investigate the potential of using the stored thermal energy of ground for space cooling with the help of an earth to air heat exchanger (EAHE) system integrated with the greenhouse located in the premises of Manav Rachna University, Faridabad, Haryana.The analysis was based on quasi-steady state condition.Experiments were conducted extensively during summer period from April to October, but the model, developed, was validated against the clear and sunny days.The performance of the system was evaluated in terms of total cooling potential obtained from EAHE, coefficient of performance (COP) and thermal load leveling.The cooling potential has also been standardized by the characteristic curve of greenhouse similar to that of flat plate collector.Temperatures of greenhouse air were found to be on an average 3-4 0C less than the same green house when operating without EAHE.The temperature fluctuations of greenhouse air were also less when operated with EAHE as compared to without EAHE.Predicted and measured values of greenhouse air temperatures that were verified in terms of root mean square of percent deviation and correlation coefficient, exhibited fair agreement.