Study and Characterization of a Spherical Solar Collector. Part II: Comparative Analysis with Flat-Plate Devices

The paper analyses the performance of a spherical solar collector compared to efficiency flat-plate collector, which is type that does not use tracking system in collecting radiation for energy conversion. Spherical benefits from constant value angle incidence, optimizes strikes absorber device and maximizes collection. Besides, geometry has larger area equal dimensions, width, length. combined effect surface higher effective onto increases collection device. We developed theoretical analysis obtain algorithm determine collected energy, when using collector. A simulation runs calculate predicted values. experimental tests 1.05 m diameter, 1.94 × 1.025 m. validate simulation. comparative shows generates more than one same absorbing by factor 2.09, 7.75 times if width height equals diameter one.