DESIGN OF A SOLAR WATER HEATER USING PARABOLIC REFLECTORS

Abstract

This research reflects on the modification of solar water heating system using parabolic reflectors. The system includes a parabolic dish, a cone-shaped absorber, and a water heater. In this arrangement, the conical absorber directly takes in sunlight, while the parabolic dish focuses sunlight from different angles onto the absorber. This combined approach makes the system more efficient at collecting heat. Water is stored at the base of the absorber tubes, which get heated by the sun. As the tubes heat up, the temperature of the water inside rises, causing some of it to turn into vapor. The vapor then moves upward due to buoyancy and enters a heat exchanger. When freshwater flows through the heat exchanger, it cools the vapor, causing it to condense back into liquid form. The condensed water then returns to the bottom of the absorber tube due to gravity. This cycle repeats continuously. The study shows that this new system improves heat collection, boosts heat transfer, and provides an efficient way to heat water.