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parabolic trough collector
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Image courtesy of SunLabs, Dept. of Energy |
A type of concentrating solar collector that uses U-shaped troughs to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver tube, containing a working fluid such as water, which is positioned along the focal line of the trough. Sometimes a transparent glass tube envelops the receiver tube to reduce heat loss. Parabolic troughs often use single-axis or dual-axis tracking. In rare instances, they may be stationary. Temperatures at the receiver can reach 400°C. The heated working fluid may be used for medium temperature space or process heat, or to operate a steam turbine for power or electricity generation. In California, multi-megawatt power plants were built using parabolic troughs combined with gas turbines.
Related categories
• SOLAR ENERGY AND POWER
External site
Parabolic Trough Solar Power Network, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
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Encyclopedia of Science
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