Basic components : The Parabolic Trough concentrating solar mechanism is composed of the parabolic trough shaped reflective surface (mirrors), the metal structure, the tracking mechanism and the receiver.

Operation principle : The mirrors track the sun in one axis in order to concentrate the solar irradiation into the linear receiver located at the focal line. The receiver converts the concentrated irradiation to useful heat.

Basic Characteristics
Shape of mirrors	Parabolic
Type of concentration	Linear
Sun Concentration Ratio	30 - 100
Temperature Range	150 – 500 oC
Heat Transfer fluid	Thermal oil, Molten salt, Pressurized water, 2 phase water
Storage ability	Yes

Basic Applications : The produced heat from the Parabolic trough collectors can be used for electricity generation by driving a turbine(or engine) connected to an electrical power generator, for steam generation by a heat exchanger, for cooling by driving  a thermal (or compression) chiller and for desalination by driving a thermal (or electrical) desalination unit.

Technology Variations : -