Transient Pipe Network Analysis

Transient pipe network analysis is a valuable method for the design and dimensioning of large solar thermal systems with regard to operational safety and efficiency .
HP-BIG is a free Open Source tool written in VBA under Excel. It contains extendable catalogues for collector modules, pipes, and pumps.
Large collector fields of several thousand square meter collector area can be modelled, with network topology in C- or Z-configuration.
Stationary pipe network analysis is used to size pipe diameters and pump, and to decide which topology is favorable.
Transient pipe network analysis is used to determine hydraulic and thermal time constants, the height of the temperature peak following a pump start, and the location and value of minimum pressure that occurs at pump stop. These values are needed for the dimensioning of pressure maintenance and to design modes of operation and control parameters.