Theoretical and experimental investigation of a hot box-type solar cooker performance

Abstract

A box-type solar cooker with three reflectors hinged at the top of the cooker was used for the experimental data and a mathematical model. Energy-balance equations were applied to components of the cooker such as absorber plate, cooking vessel, cooking fluid, enclosure air inside the cooker, and glass cover. Then, Cramer's rule was used to solve the equations and build the models. The actual temperature distribution in Karabuk, Turkey recorded on a typical summer day was also calculated by computer simulation using the suggested model. The predicted temperatures agreed with measurements under transient conditions within about 3.2 °C for absorber plate, until the boiling point of water was reached, to +1.8 °C for enclosure air, and within ±2.5 °C for cooking fluid. Good agreement between experimental and theoretical results was observed. © IMechE 2007.