The TecQuipment focusing solar energy collector provides a direct and practical way to study the fundamental principles of solar thermal power. This unit is designed for engineering and technology students, offering a clear demonstration of how solar radiation can be concentrated to generate significant heat. At its core, the apparatus operates on a simple principle: a parabolic trough reflector focuses sunlight onto a central collecting pipe. A fluid passing through this pipe absorbs the concentrated thermal energy, allowing for detailed analysis of heat transfer and system efficiency. This self-contained, mobile unit enables students to investigate the core variables of solar power generation, such as the effects of reflector angle, fluid flow rate, and solar intensity on thermal energy absorption. It transforms the abstract concepts of thermodynamics and renewable energy into tangible, measurable results.
Using the focusing solar energy collector, students develop critical skills in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and renewable energy systems analysis. The hands-on experiments teach them to measure temperature, pressure, and flow rates to calculate changes in fluid enthalpy and overall system efficiency. Key applications include determining the collector’s performance characteristics, understanding the relationship between incident solar radiation and useful energy gain, and analyzing heat loss mechanisms. Students learn to apply the first law of thermodynamics to an open system, conduct energy balances, and evaluate the practical viability of concentrating solar power technology. These exercises provide a foundational understanding for designing and operating larger-scale solar thermal installations in real-world engineering contexts.
| Specification | Value |
| Product dimensions | 1650 mm x 1600 mm x 1000 mm |
| Product weight | 75 kg |
| Applicable education levels | Higher education, vocational, and university |
| Collector Type | Parabolic trough |
| Reflector Material | Anodised aluminium |
| Absorber Pipe | Black nickel-plated copper pipe in a borosilicate glass tube |
| Tracking System | Manual, with altitude and azimuth adjustment |
| Instrumentation | Pyranometer, pressure gauges, temperature probes, flow meter |
| Data Acquisition | Includes TecQuipment’s Versatile Data Acquisition System (VDAS-F) |
| Mobility | Mobile frame with castors |
| Working Fluid | Water (requires mains supply) |
Aidex is proud to supply the focusing solar energy collector to learning institutions across the Midwest. We are committed to equipping educators and students in the region with the industry-leading tools they need to succeed in understanding renewable energy technologies.
The curriculum focuses on fundamental principles of thermodynamics and heat transfer. Key topics include solar radiation measurement, energy conversion, collector efficiency calculations, heat absorption analysis, and the application of the first law of thermodynamics to a solar thermal system.
This equipment is designed for undergraduate students in mechanical engineering, renewable energy technology, and physics programs. It is also suitable for vocational and technical training centers offering courses in sustainable energy systems.
The unit is largely self-contained but requires a mains water supply for the working fluid and a standard single-phase electrical supply to power the instrumentation and data acquisition system.
Yes, the focusing solar energy collector includes TecQuipment’s Versatile Data Acquisition System (VDAS-F). This allows for real-time monitoring and recording of all key measurements on a suitable computer, which is not included.
The collector is aligned manually. It features separate controls for adjusting both the altitude and azimuth angles, allowing students to track the sun’s position throughout the day to maximize energy absorption.
For more information or to contact Aidex, your Authorized Reseller, call 800-251-9935 or email info@aidex.com.
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