A SOLAR FURNACE
V. Ryan © 2005
The picture below shows the parabolic reflector of the Odeillo-F**t-Romeau Solar Furnace in France. 63 flat mirrors automatically track the sun and c**centrate the light ** a reflector. The reflector then c**centrates the rays to produce 1000 kilowatts and a temperature of 33,000degrees centigrade. This is used to power a furnace producing steel from ir** ore.
The producti** of steel or aluminium requires very large amounts of energy. This is normally provided by electricity, gas or fossil fuels. The solar furnace relies ** the power of the sun. The picture below shows how the sun’s rays are focussed ** the crucible holding the ore. The ore is heated to a very high temperature until it becomes molten, then it is poured. Polluti** is kept to a minimum as solar power is a clean source of energy.
QUESTI**S:
1. Design another industrial applicati** of a parabolic collector system. For example, the system could be used to produce electricity for a remote farm OR produce hot water for a public bathing area.