Design of a Parabolic Trough Solar Collector Using a Concentrator with High Reflectivity

Abstract -Parabolic trough collectors are used for industrial applications in a temperature range 150-400 o C. Flat-plate collectors are not appropriate for these high temperatures. In concentrating solar power technology, the optical efficiency of solar collector influences collector performance significantly. In this paper, two different reflective surfaces are used to increase the optical efficiency of a parabolic trough solar collector. 316-L chrome plate and aluminium composite panel are used for the reflective surface. The results from two surfaces are compared with each other. A glass cover for the absorber is used and the results from absorber tube with and without glass cover are also compared