DESIGN,FABRICATION AND TESTING OF COMPOUND PARABOLIC CONCENTRATOR

This project report presents the design, fabrication, and testing of a Compound Parabolic Concentrator (CPC) for solar energy applications. The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the CPC in concentrating solar energy and achieving the desired temperature for a specific application. The design phase involved developing a mathematical model to optimize the geometry of the CPC, considering factors such as light collection efficiency and concentration ratio. Using simulation software, the CPC was optimized to enhance its performance in capturing and focusing solar radiation .

Following the design phase, the fabrication process involved constructing the CPC proto-type using suitable materials and manufacturing techniques. Careful attention was given to ensure the precision and accuracy of the CPC’s geometry, as any deviations could affect its performance. The testing phase involved subjecting the CPC to varying solar radiation intensities under controlled conditions. Temperature measurements were taken at the focal point of the CPC to evaluate its ability to achieve the desired temperature.

Data collected during the testing phase were analyzed to determine the efficiency and effectiveness of the CPC in concentrating solar energy. The results of the testing phase confirmed the successful operation of the CPC, as it consistently achieved the desired temperature. The data also demonstrated the CPC’s capability to concentrate solar energy effectively, leading to increased temperature levels at the focal point. This project report concludes that the design, fabrication, and testing of the Compound Parabolic Concentrator have been successfully accomplished. The findings validate the efficacy of the CPC as a solar energy concentrator, showcasing its potential for various applications such as solar water heating, solar cooking, and solar power generation. The successful implementation of the CPC contributes to the advancement of renewable energy technologies, providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for harnessing solar energy. Future research could focus on further optimizing the design and exploring new materials and manufacturing techniques to enhance the CPC’s performance and make it more commercially viable.