Numerical study of the effect of focusing the absorber relative to the mirror in a parabolic trough concentrator (PTC) on mixed convection
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Keywords:
Parabolic Trough Collectors, Center Focal, Mixed ConvectionAbstract
In the field of solar thermal energy, parabolic trough collectors (PTCs) stand out as a promising
technology for renewable energy production. The precise focusing of the absorber located at the center
focal of the parabolic mirror, which concentrates solar light, plays a crucial role in maximizing solar energy
absorption and enhancing the system's thermal efficiency. This numerical study shows the impact of
absorber focusing on mixed convection within a PTC receiver. Through numerical simulations, it aims to
investigate how variations in focusing affect heat transfer mechanisms, critical for optimizing energy
performance and durability of PTC systems. The study is conducted with a Reynolds number of 2200, a
Grashof number ranging from 1x106 to 6x106 and a cylinder inclination angle of a = 0˚ (horizontal).
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