Abstract
Nonimaging optics has been playing an important role in both tracking and non-tracking devices used for solar applications. We will report on our progress on implementing the integrated design within a glass vacuum tube for a non-tracking solar thermal collector. Such a design allows a thermodynamically efficient concentrator to be used for any convex shaped absorber. The acceptance angle of the design is also optimized for the seasonal change of sun. To minimize the material cost of our design, the reflector is integrated with the shape of the evacuated tube. Compared to from the conventional parabolic trough receiver which utilizes bellows and double end seals, our design uses a single end metal glass seal and allows the other end to freely expand. A 0.7 meter prototype is constructed as a prototype. The optical efficiency and incident angular modifier are simulated using a ray tracing program to show that within the designed acceptance angle, the collector performs at around 78% optical efficiency.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
