Design and Experimental Analysis of Parabolic Dish Solar Cooker at Different Climatic Conditions

Abstract

Solar energy is a renewable energy source that is abundantly available in Pakistan. Solar energy is a green energy that contributes to cater the adverse effects of conventional energy sources on environment. A parabolic dish solar cooker is designed to utilize solar heat energy for cooking purposes. Solar cooker comprises mainly of a reflective concentrator and a receiver pot. Greenhouse effect is applied by placing a glass jacket around the receiver pot that aid in rise of receiver temperature and cater for ambient effects on receiver. Performance of the parabolic dish solar cooker is analyzed at two different locations of Pakistan (Islamabad and Multan). The experimental results indicate that solar flux and effective concentration of solar irradiance has major contribution in PDSC performance. Also, it is concluded that time required for attaining high temperature i.e., (90°C) 363.15 K in Multan is 30 minutes less compared to Islamabad due to variable ambient conditions. Similarly, the amount of heat energy stored by water and the heat energy readily available during cooking i.e., cooking power is more in Multan scenario comparing it with Islamabad. From the results obtained it is concluded that PDSC has a great potential to be used as an alternative to conventional cooking methods.