Enhancing Energy Efficiency of Solar Thermal Systems: A Prototype for Ironing and Water Evaporators using Square and Curved Concentrators

Solar thermal systems, which harness heat energy from the sun, exhibit varying degrees of effectiveness based on the specific technology employed. The pivotal factor influencing the choice of a solar thermal system lies in the temperatures achievable by flat and curved concentrators. Flat solar collectors are typically utilized for applications such as generating hot water, where evaporation isn't necessary due to the achieved temperature hovering around ninety degrees Celsius. On the other hand, high concentration collectors, distinguished by their non-planar configuration, are often categorized based on their curvature, like parabolic collectors and parabolic trough concentrators. These types excel when higher temperatures are sought, allowing for water evaporation, and facilitating more powerful applications. This study involves temperature measurements and energy efficiency assessments of both flat and curved collectors, each covering an area of one square meter. These collectors are integrated into systems for domestic ironing and water evaporation. Through the utilization of software and hardware for data acquisition and storage, an efficiency approximation for scaled models is calculated. This approximation hinges on parameters such as solar intensity during peak hours, collector tilt angle, material composition of the collectors, water flow rate, and time of day. The data obtained from experimental observations serve as a foundational element for research groups at the at the research subgroup on technological innovation in energy SITEN, On the campus of the Institución Universitaria de Barranquilla IUB, University Institution of Barranquilla, located in Soledad -Atlántico. The overarching goal is to prototype self-sustaining communities in regions disconnected from the national power grid.