Dishkoncentratorer

Dishkoncentratorer, often translated as "dish concentrators" or "dish collectors," are devices designed to concentrate solar radiation onto a specific point. This concentration increases the intensity of sunlight, making it suitable for various applications that require high temperatures. The fundamental principle behind a dishkoncentrator is the use of a parabolic reflector, which is shaped like a parabola. This shape has the unique property of reflecting all incoming parallel rays of sunlight to a single focal point.

The most common type of dishkoncentrator is the parabolic dish. This dish is a mirror-like surface, typically made of polished metal or coated glass, precisely shaped into a parabolic curve. At the focal point of the parabola, a receiver is positioned. This receiver absorbs the concentrated solar energy and converts it into heat. This heat can then be used to drive a heat engine, such as a Stirling engine or a steam turbine, to generate electricity. Alternatively, the concentrated heat can be directly used for industrial processes requiring high temperatures, like melting metals or producing chemicals.

Dishkoncentrator systems are known for their high efficiency in converting solar energy to electricity compared to other solar technologies. However, they require precise tracking of the sun's movement throughout the day to maintain optimal concentration at the focal point. This often involves sophisticated mounting systems that can adjust the dish's orientation. The land area required for dishkoncentrator farms is also a consideration. Their ability to achieve very high temperatures makes them a valuable technology in concentrated solar power (CSP) and other solar thermal applications.