Performance evaluation of a hot-box reflector solar cooker using a microcontroller-based measurement system

Abstract

SUMMARYThe performance of a low-cost compound box-reflector solar cooker designed and constructed by the department of Mechanical Engineering, at the University of Zimbabwe, was investigated and evaluated using a microcontroller-based measurement system over a period of 3 months. Solar radiation and temperature measurements are sent directly to the computer for monitoring and subsequent analysis using a spreadsheet program. The system is connected to the computer through the RS232 port. Temperature was measured by LM335 temperature sensors, whereas solar radiation was measured by a Kipp & Zonen CM3 thermopile-based pyranometer that was initially calibrated against the Eppley Precision Spectral Pyranometer. Peak temperatures of about 901C for the food can be attained in about 5 h on a clear day in Bindura, Zimbabwe (181S, 311E). A standardized cooking power of 11 W and an overall efficiency of 15% were found for this cooker.

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“…The standard featured two techniques for testing: a stagnation (test without load) and a heap test. Test on the cooker was done in the Month of March when the sunlight-based illumination was greatest (Mukaro &Tinarwo, 2008). The test was completed between 11.00 am and 4.00 pm for ten sequential days so as to decide the most extreme plate and water temperature in the cooker during this period.…”

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