ABSTRACT
In order to design a new solar parabolic concentrator that will be installed to operate in more efficient and more feasible ways, it is necessary in the first step to analyze parameters such as solar irradiations values and solar angles. Therefore, in this work, theoretical studies have been performed for solar angles using time and geographic parameters in Tunisia. An experimental measurement of solar irradiations has been done using a high-precision metrological station to determine the diffuse, the direct, and the global irradiations on the horizontal plane.
In the second step, each solar concentrator technology has its specifications in terms of mobility, orientation, and the accuracy of the tracking system. In this work, three pilot sun-tracking systems for a solar parabolic concentrator were designed and constructed in the Research and Technology Center of Energy in Tunisia. Those trackers are able to follow the sun position on both axes (azimuth and elevation angles). We have described and determined the sun-tracking errors of each one. A comparative study of the three sun-tracking systems with a commercial tracker has been held. Based on efficiency and economical criteria, one of the sun-tracking systems was selected.
