Experimental study of adsorptive solar-powered ice makers in Agadir (Morocco)—2. Influences of meteorological parameters

Performances of the solar powered ice-makers tested in Agadir, Morocco, as described in [1], are studied. Experimental data are sufficient for establishing a statistical correlation between heat extraction and meteorological parameters: insolation, diurnal and nocturnal temperatures. The influences of these parameters are also evaluated through operation analysis. Both approaches are rather consistent. Nocturnal temperature appears to be a quite important factor. Indeed, cold nights (around 10°C) largely increase production. Meteorological conditions for producing either just no ice at all or 5.2 kg, are investigated, as well as an evaluation of yearly production: in Agadir, the average daily production lies around 4 kg/m2. With a nocturnal cooling system, the units would produce around 1 kg more. From the economic point of view, small units such as those tested herein are too expensive, but solarization of a pre-existing cold store in isolated areas looks competitive.