Parabolic Trough

Definition

A parabolic trough is a type of solar collector that uses curved, parabolic-shaped mirrors to focus sunlight onto a receiver tube running along its focal line. This design is effective in converting solar energy into thermal energy, which can be used to generate electricity or for other heating applications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parabolic trough systems are typically arranged in long rows, allowing for efficient land use and maximizing sunlight capture throughout the day.
2. The mirrors are designed to track the sun’s movement from east to west, maintaining optimal focus on the receiver tube to ensure maximum energy collection.
3. These systems can operate at high temperatures, often reaching up to 400°C, which enhances their efficiency in generating steam for power production.
4. Parabolic troughs are one of the most mature and widely deployed technologies in concentrated solar power applications, with several operational plants around the world.
5. The use of advanced materials in mirrors and receivers has improved durability and performance, increasing the overall efficiency of parabolic trough systems.

Review Questions

• How does the design of a parabolic trough contribute to its efficiency in concentrating solar energy?
  • The design of a parabolic trough utilizes curved mirrors that focus sunlight onto a linear receiver positioned along the focal line. This configuration allows for a larger surface area to capture sunlight effectively throughout the day. Additionally, by tracking the sun’s movement, parabolic troughs maintain optimal angles for sunlight concentration, leading to higher thermal energy conversion rates compared to fixed solar collectors.
• Discuss how the thermal energy generated by parabolic troughs can be integrated into various power cycles.
  • The thermal energy produced by parabolic troughs can be integrated into different power cycles, such as the Rankine cycle or combined cycle applications. In these configurations, the heated fluid from the receiver generates steam that drives turbines for electricity production. By using heat transfer fluids with high boiling points, parabolic troughs enable efficient heat transfer to generate superheated steam, enhancing overall system efficiency and allowing for better integration with existing power infrastructures.
• Evaluate the advantages and challenges associated with implementing parabolic trough technology in large-scale CSP projects.
  • Implementing parabolic trough technology in large-scale CSP projects offers several advantages, including proven reliability and relatively low operational costs. Their ability to operate at high temperatures allows for efficient steam generation and integration with thermal storage solutions. However, challenges such as land use requirements, initial capital investment, and dependency on direct sunlight can impact project feasibility. Additionally, advancements in competing technologies like power towers may influence market dynamics and adoption rates for parabolic trough systems.

Related terms

Solar Collector: A device that captures and converts solar energy into usable heat or electricity.

Receiver: A component in CSP systems where concentrated sunlight is absorbed and converted into thermal energy.

Heat Transfer Fluid: A fluid used in CSP systems to transfer heat from the receiver to the power generation system, commonly oil or molten salt.