Determination of error tolerances for optical design of parabolic troughs
A study is presented where potential optical errors in parabolic troughs are divided into two groups: random and non-random. Small-scale slope errors, mirror nonspecularity, apparent changes in sun's width, and small occasional tracking errors are classified as random errors. Reflector profile errors, misalignment of the receiver with the effective focus of the reflector, and misalignment of the trough with the sun are classified as non-random errors. Random errors are analyzed using statistics and assuming a normally distributed error. Non-random errors are analyzed by building provisions into the optical model which allow for the analysis of such errors. Universal design curves showing the effect of random and non-random errors on the optical performance (efficiency) of the trough are presented.
- Research Organization:
- Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
- OSTI ID:
- 6507928
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-831111-
- Journal Information:
- Am. Soc. Mech. Eng., (Pap.); (United States), Journal Name: Am. Soc. Mech. Eng., (Pap.); (United States) Vol. 83-WA/SOL-1; ISSN ASMSA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
141000* -- Solar Collectors & Concentrators
CONCENTRATING COLLECTORS
DESIGN
EQUIPMENT
ERRORS
FOCUSING
INCIDENCE ANGLE
MIRRORS
OPTICAL PROPERTIES
OPTICS
PARABOLIC COLLECTORS
PARABOLIC REFLECTORS
PARABOLIC TROUGH COLLECTORS
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
RANDOMNESS
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR CONCENTRATORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SOLAR REFLECTORS
SOLAR TRACKING