A TRACKING SOLAR CONCENTRATOR
SITING SAFETY
The concentrated sunlight can ignite combustibles or cause other damage. At the focal point, temperatures of about 1200 F will be achieved. This point is about eight feet in front of the mirror array. If this concentrated energy does not hit the collector because the array is not properly aligned with the sun, then a hazard exists about another eight feet beyond the missed target. Protect this sixteen foot space ! Beyond this, the energy is dispersed and will simply becomes a lot of bright spots scattered upon surrounding objects, as each mirror has a unique angle with the sun rays. It's a rather pretty effect, especially if the array is lightly dancing in the breeze. The prototype cover photo exemplifies just such a hazard. The energy can hit the nearby roof prior to total dispersal and damage the asphalt shingles. It did just that so we relocated it for safety reasons
A piece of sheet metal roofing blocked with a one inch air space between it and the shingles should protect it.
Also consider the hazard to persons, particularly children that may find it fascinating and within reach. You can get one H of a sun- burn, mighty fast with a little horseplay. One look at the array from the focal point might be your last.
I'm not trying to scare you, but we ARE playing with fire. It can be tamed and used like fire, but be careful, please.
