Modeling and Optimization of Parabolic Trough Collector

Abstract

Parabolic trough collector (PTC) is a concentrating collector widely used for steam cooking, water heating, and also steam power generation and desalination work. The performance of PTC is strongly depends on its process parameters and is a MCDM problem. Implementation of integrated method, that is, entropy with graph theory and matrix approach (E-GTMA) for modelling and optimization of PTC parameters to improve higher outlet temperature (To), higher heat gain (h), and higher thermal efficiency (ηth), is discussed in this chapter. Investigation results indicate the effectiveness of this technique for multi-objective optimization and determined optimal setting as Test no.10 for PTC. Additionally, parametric and ANOVA analysis is carried out to determine the significance and adequacy of the developed model. Last, validation of the proposed model and verification results is done via confirmatory tests, and tests results show comparable and acceptable w.r.t. experimental results.