Performance studies of two discrete mirror, seasonally-adjusted, linear solar concentrators

The optical and thermal performance of two discrete mirror, seasonally-adjusted, linear solar concentrators, with tubular and triangular absorbers, fabricated using locally available materials have been studied. The local concentration ratio distribution over the absorbers is obtained by performing flux mapping experiments at full moon. The optical efficiencies of the concentrators are found by no heat loss test. The time constants for both the systems have been measured. The heat loss coefficients at different temperatures are determined by performing heat loss test at the outside. All day performance test for both the concentrators has been conducted on a clear day and a semi-cloudy day. The results of the above experiments are presented graphically and discussed.