Development of a Function for a Compound Parabolic Concentrator (CPC) in Perpendicular Coordinates and its Experimental Investigation

This paper describes the deduction of a mathematical function for a compound parabolic concentrator (CPC), a device that is used widely in solar energy applications. A new equation in the perpendicular coordinates has been obtained so that the relative parameters such as ratio of height/aperture can be obtained easily. The case for a truncated CPC is also presented and its parameters are given in the coordinates. Some basic experimental work has been carried out using a truncated CPC integrated with the copper plate as an absorber and heat pipes. An analysis of parameters has also been carried out.