09-03-2017, 01:14 PM
The technology of solar concentrators is becoming more frequent nowadays and the studies realized on this subject have gained much interest in the world. In order to design a new solar parabolic concentrator that will be installed to operate more efficiently and more feasibly, it is necessary in the first step to analyze parameters such as values of solar irradiation and solar angles. Therefore, in this work, theoretical studies have been performed for solar angles using time and geographical parameters in Tunisia. An experimental measurement of solar irradiation using a high-precision metrological station was carried out to determine the diffuse, direct and global irradiances in the horizontal plane. In the second step each solar concentrator technology has its specifications in terms of mobility, orientation and accuracy of the tracking system.
Three pilot solar tracking systems were designed and built for a solar parabolic concentrator at the Center for Research and Energy Technology of Tunisia. These followers can follow the position of the sun on both axes (azimuth and elevation angles). We have described and determined the solar tracking errors of each. A comparative study of the three solar tracking systems with a commercial tracker has been carried out. Based on efficiency and economic criteria, one of the solar tracking systems was selected. The total price of the chosen tracker is estimated at around 1300 euros and its tracking error is less than 0.2 °. The advanced precision of the new tracker was achieved with the use of the reducer.
