Solar Cooker News
December 2007
With the end of another semester in sight, the solar cooker team is in the process of collecting and analyzing their test results. The team had a busy fall semester as they worked to upgrade the lab lighting system, modify the box oven, and construct a parabolic cooker. The team doubled the number of lights in their test facility and is now able to produce an intensity around 1 kW/m2. Additionally, the team altered one of the box cookers so it now has a fiberboard interior and exterior, just like those in use in Sabana Grande. According to test results, this change increased the efficiency of the cooker. Finally, the team designed and constructed a parabolic cooker. Although this cooker is still not more efficient than the box ovens, it improved on last year’s device and more adjustments will be made in the spring. In January, our advisor will join a couple students in the 12 day solar culture course taught by Grupo Fenix. This is sure to give them many great ideas for new projects for the spring!
