Thermal characterization of two solar storage ovens with flat reflector coupling

Abstract

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and energy efficiency, technologies that take advantage of renewable energy sources are gaining relevance. In Mexico, many people currently use firewood to cook their food. The constant use of firewood represents health risks because it emits many harmful substances. This article compares two solar ovens designed and manufactured at the Faculty of Engineering of the Autonomous University of Campeche. Both are made of galvanized sheet metal coated with reflective paint on the inside; the entire equipment is thermally insulated with expanded polystyrene, and the walls are covered with wood. Tests were carried out, and the operation of the equipment was analyzed, presenting a partially clear day as an example. With the climatic conditions of an average solar irradiance of 434 W/m2, ambient temperature of 31 ºC, and minimum relative humidity of 70%, a maximum temperature of 90 °C was reached. The tests were conducted in the city of Campeche, Campeche, located at 17°49' and 20°51' north latitude and 89°06' and 92°27' west longitude. Both prototypes achieved similar temperatures. Although the solar ovens did not reach the expected temperatures, they did maintain internal heat for a long time, allowing for cooking foods that require moderate or low temperatures.