Parametric Evaluation of a Parabolic Trough Solar Collector

Abstract

A parabolic trough collector was studied to determine its performance parameters when stationary and when tracked. The overall heat loss coefficient, heat removal factor, efficiency function, flow factor and its thermal efficiency are the factors of interest. Optimum values obtained for the collector when tracked were as follows: Collector efficiency function, 12m²K/Kw; heat removal factor, 0.59, flow factor, 0.76; overall heat loss, 0.02KW/m²K and thermal efficiency of 56%.

Keywords: parabolic trough, performance, parameters.