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Both can be used for solar cooking and solar hot water heating. |
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| There are two basic types of Fresnel lenses, Linear and Spot. Both lenses look identical to the naked eye in terms of the circular Fresnel pattern but a Spot lens will always appear more transparent. Spot lenses produce a very small tight beam at optimal focal length and are generally more powerful size for size. Linear lenses produce a long flat beam ranging from 1 inch high by 3 inches wide up to 1" x 12". There are the specific acrylics that are UV Stabilized. I have tested several styles for 2+ years. Linear Fresnel Lens Advantages: Less chance of damaging equipment if liquid evaporates Long beam can be spread the length of a pipe Powers a Steam Engine slower but more safely Disadvantages: More opaque due to physical nature, less light (power) transferred to project Cannot be used for melting metals Spot Fresnel Lens Advantages: High power heat transfer (available in Crystal Clear Acrylic perfection cutting) Can be set to less of a focal length (ideal for cooking) Melts copper and many other materials Powers a Sterling Engine and Steam Engine Disadvantages: Instant flame and work hazard Equipment damage Does not spread over a pipe surface evenly BUY A HUGE FRESNEL LENS |
LINEAR FRESNEL LENS SPOT FRESNEL LENS |
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