A Parabolic Trough Solar Collector (PTSC) focuses sunlight onto a linear receiver tube at the focus of a parabolic mirror. A heat-transfer fluid (HTF)—water/steam, thermal oil, or glycol—flows through the tube, absorbing concentrated heat for 80–250 °C process use (hot water/steam, absorption cooling, desalination pre-heat, ORC). This project demonstrates optics, tracking, heat transfer, and structural design

Parts Used:

1. Reflector – Parabolic shell (aluminum sheet with mirror film or glass mirrors) with stiffeners.
2. Receiver Tube – Copper/SS tube at focus; selective coating (black chrome/paint for student build).
3. Glass Envelope (optional) – Borosilicate sleeve with vacuum or dry air gap to cut convective losses.
4. Support & Frame – Rigid truss with bearings; wind bracing and adjustable focus mounts.
5. Tracking System – Single-axis EW tracking (manual or motorized) with limit switches and controller.
6. HTF Loop – Pump, expansion tank, air vent, non-return valve, bleed/drain, insulation.
7. Heat Exchanger/Load – Coil-in-tank, plate HX, or flash boiler (demo).
8. Instrumentation – Pyranometer (optional), inlet/outlet temp sensors, flow meter, pressure gauge, data logger.
9. Controls & Safety – Temperature controller, over-temperature bypass, relief valve, thermal fuse; stow position switch.
10. Thermal Storage (optional) – Water tank or PCM (120–200 °C) for extended operation.