Title: Scheffler reflector based solar cooking system with dual sensible heat storage material for night cooking application: an experimental investigation

Authors: Romil Patel; Vikramkumar B. Patel

Addresses: Mechanical Engineering Department, Ganpat University, Ganpat Vidyanagar, Mehsana, Gujarat, India ' Mechanical Engineering Department, L.D. College of Engineering, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

Abstract: In this research paper, Scheffler reflector solar cooker with dual SHSMs for night cooking application has been investigated experimentally. One material is placed in the solar cooker's inner pot, while another is placed in the outer pot. Six combinations are formed from sand, iron pieces and pebbles for thermal energy storage. In the experimental work, Scheffler reflector type solar cooker transfers heat to a receiver. During daylight hours, the SHSM unit collects and stores heat, while in the evening, the solar cooker is transferred to an insulated box and loaded for cooking. The stored heat within the SHSM is transferred to the cooking medium. The results show that the food could be cooked in cases of inner and outer space filled with sand-iron pieces, pebbles-sand, and sand-pebbles, and partially cooked in cases of iron pieces-sand, iron pieces-pebbles, and pebbles-iron pieces. After calculation of the payback period, it was showing 10.01 years.

Keywords: Scheffler reflector; solar energy; solar cooking; SHSM units; sensible heat; thermal performance.

DOI: 10.1504/IJDE.2024.138944

International Journal of Design Engineering, 2024 Vol.13 No.1, pp.33 - 49

Received: 30 Mar 2023
Accepted: 16 Jan 2024
Published online: 04 Jun 2024 *

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