Mathematical Modelling for the Thermal Performance of a Solar Parabolic Trough Concentrator (PTC) Under Egypt Climate

Abstract

In this work, an analysis of the annual performance of a parabolic trough concentrator has been accomplished. A numerical model was developed and built to study the annual performance of the parabolic trough collector's field at different locations in Egypt. The energy equations were solved using the Engineering Equation Solver EES software. The optical and thermal parameters of the concentrator were considered in the model. The numerical model results showed that temperature rise ranges from 90.5 to 221 °C and the outlet temperate ranges from 442 to 565 ºC at solar noon according to the season and the location. The operating period of the parabolic concentrator reaches its maximum value at summer where it ranges from 76.5 to 82 h/week. The present model was validated with the TRNSYS model. As a result, the presented model can be considered as a meaningful tool for developing the parabolic trough plant in Egypt.