Keywords

Solar collectors

Abstract

The concept of a cavity absorber for use with a focusing parabolic trough is developed in this paper. A mathematical model is formulated and used to compare different absorber geometries. Limitations of the model are discussed and within the range of materials and fabrication methods available, the choice of a cylindrical cavity is substantiated. Relative sizes of the gap and cylinder are chosen for a given mirror arc length, focal length, and alignment error. The model is used to optimize these parameters and predict absorber and collector efficiency. The processes of building and testing the absorber are detailed, and test results are reported. Observed performance is significantly below that predicted. Mirror alignment errors are considered the most likely reason for the discrepancy. Other possible improvements to the experiment are suggested.

Notes

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Graduation Date

Spring 1980

Advisor

Beck, James K.

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Engineering

Degree Program

Energy Systems

Format

PDF

Pages

71 p.

Language

English

Rights

Public Domain

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

Identifier

DP0013343

Subjects

Solar collectors

Collection (Linked data)

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Accessibility Status

Searchable text

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