Design of Low-Cost Solar Parabolic Through Steam Sterilization

The objective of this study is to develop a low cost solar parabolic trough that can be used for steam sterilization of medical instruments in small clinics where electricity is scarce and expensive. On the basis of theoretical concepts of parabola and focus-balanced parabola, the assembly of ribs and reflector sheet with evacuated tube and heat pipe has been done. The parabolic trough has been mounted on a trolley so that it can be moved easily according to direction of sun light. The designed solar parabolic trough was integrated with pressure cooker under various setups and experiments were conducted to test whether sterilization is taking place or not. To validate sterilization process, tests were also conducted by placing the infected medical instruments. The solar parabolic trough developed was able to generate and maintain steam at 121 degrees Celsius at pressure 15 psig (101.3 kN/m2) for 15 minutes. The solar parabolic trough developed was effective in sterilizing the medical instruments.