Model of a parabolic trough field

Principle

Water in an insulated black pipe is heated by the sun in a parabolic trough power station. The parabolic trough bundles the incident rays of light to obtain a higher efficiency.

The heat evaporates water in the pipe. The steam so produced is used to drive a turbine and so a generator.

Condensate on the inner surface of the test tube clearly demonstrates the evaporation of water here.

Benefits

• Experiment is part of a complete solution set with a total of 26 experiments for Renewable Energy solar cells, wind power, water power
• Safe experimentation: the lamp is protected against touch, the housing is well ventilated with the aid of holes and is only slightly heated
• The power supply used is versatile and is particularly suitable for pupil tests for all ages

Tasks

In this experiment, a model of a parabolic trough power station is to be constructed and used to help explain the basic principle involved.