Abstract: | This paper presents an analytical study of a stationary plane mirror solar concentrator. It is composed of an array of East-West oriented trapezoidal channels with two sided reflecting walls and a tubular absorber as a receiver at the base. We have analysed and identified the most practical design parameters for a trough like concentrator. The one- and two-faceted plane side wall configurations with tubular receiver at the base of the trough have been studied in detail. It has been concluded that large savings in reflecting surfaces are possible while sacrificing some reduction in concentration. A theoretical prediction for the dependance of absorber efficiency on temperature has been obtained. |