Parabolic Trough

A parabolic trough collector (PTC) is a highly efficient type of solar thermal collector, engineered for concentrated solar power applications. Structurally, it is straight along one axis and curved parabolically along the other, forming a long, reflective trough typically lined with a polished metal mirror. This shape enables it to capture and concentrate sunlight that enters parallel to its plane of symmetry, focusing it onto a single focal line. Along this line is usually placed a receiver tube, often containing a heat transfer fluid such as oil or water, which absorbs the concentrated thermal energy. This focused heating capability allows PTCs to reach much higher temperatures than flat plate collectors, making them ideal for medium- to high-temperature applications such as electricity generation, industrial process heat, and large-scale solar heating systems.