Which is better for concentrating sunlight ?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the efficiency and feasibility of using a central axis (cassegrain) or off axis configuration for a solar reflector in a project on solar illumination. The main difference between the two is the effective area of the reflector, with the off axis reflector having a slightly smaller area due to the projection turning a circle into an ellipse. However, the Cassegrain system also 'wastes' the central area for the secondary reflector. When considering the need for tracking the sun and the desired size and power output, it is important to also consider the tracking accuracy and feasibility of each configuration. Ultimately, the decision on which configuration is better may depend on individual project requirements and preferences.
  • #1
anjanamurthy
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which is better for concentrating sunlight ??

I m doing a project on solar illumination . I wanted to know which configuration of parabolic reflector/ collector is better in terms of efficiency - central axis (cassegrain) or off axis ??
 
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For a simple solar reflector where no high quality image is required, it's largely down to the effective area of the reflector. This may be reduced for an off axis reflector by a small amount due to the projection turning a circle into an ellipse, with a slightly smaller area - but the Cassegrain system 'wastes' all that central area for the secondary reflector.
 
  • #3


Well this is for a direct solar illumination project which requires tracking of sun. So if we consider that also .. which of the two would be better ??
In terms of tracking accuracy required and feasibility to track ...
 
  • #4


anjanamurthy said:
Well this is for a direct solar illumination project which requires tracking of sun. So if we consider that also .. which of the two would be better ??
In terms of tracking accuracy required and feasibility to track ...

What are your thoughts on reasons why one might be better over the other?
 
  • #5


anjanamurthy said:
Well this is for a direct solar illumination project which requires tracking of sun. So if we consider that also .. which of the two would be better ??
In terms of tracking accuracy required and feasibility to track ...

How well does need it to track? What size object do you want to concentrate the sunlight on? How much power do you want? (a few Watts or several kW?)
So far it's 'how long is a piece of string?'
 
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1. What is the difference between using mirrors and lenses for concentrating sunlight?

While both mirrors and lenses can be used to concentrate sunlight, they achieve this through different means. Mirrors reflect and redirect sunlight, while lenses refract and focus sunlight. This results in different concentration levels and distribution of light intensity.

2. Which method is more efficient for concentrating sunlight?

The efficiency of concentrating sunlight depends on the specific application and conditions. In general, lenses are more efficient for smaller areas and high light intensities, while mirrors are more efficient for larger areas and lower light intensities.

3. Can both mirrors and lenses be used together for concentrating sunlight?

Yes, mirrors and lenses can be used together in a system known as a hybrid concentrator. This combines the advantages of both methods, resulting in a higher concentration of sunlight and more uniform light distribution.

4. Is there a limit to how much sunlight can be concentrated using mirrors or lenses?

Yes, there is a practical limit to how much sunlight can be concentrated using mirrors or lenses. This is determined by factors such as the size and quality of the mirrors or lenses, as well as the intensity of sunlight and temperature changes.

5. Are there any safety concerns when using mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight?

Yes, there are safety concerns when using mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight. The concentrated light can cause burns or start fires, making proper precautions and safety measures essential. It is also important to avoid looking directly at concentrated sunlight, as it can damage the eyes.

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