Solar Oven August 2023
Today was the third test of the year for the solar oven. The oven reached almost 185° without reflectors (see video). I expect adding reflectors will increase the temperature at least 115° to 300°. My expectations are based on the temperature range of the SunTaste 200 solar oven which utilizes cork.
After the first test this year, I decided to get rid of the foam cooler. I was remiss not to have done some research before choosing styrofoam for trials last year. A short internet search a few months ago revealed that styrofoam starts to soften at 212° F and melts at 464°F. It never would have worked out.
For the new build, I bought thick cork which I planned to place on the outside of a large metal bucket. When I tried to accomplish my plan, I could not get the cork to stay around the exterior of the bucket, so I cut it into pieces and put it in the inside.
The cork was in place for the second test this year. The copper strip was taped onto the aluminum foil as usual. I felt the oven was not getting hot enough and decided to remove the strip. The temperature dropped due to heat release from removing the strip and then began to rise very slowly. The oven temperature usually rises quickly and I realized the copper strip did have some effect. I returned the strip to it’s usual position and the temperature rose quickly again. It may be necessary to add another strip to determine how much the copper affects oven temperature. The strip may be useful as some type of mechanism for adjustable control from the outside of the oven as well.
Solar Oven Building Materials List
The old reflectors did not fit around the bucket and were eliminated. Besides the changes previously mentioned, the build materials are essentially the same as before.
| Rectangle Galvanized Tub | 26 Quart | Walmart | $18.94 | 22 in L x 15 in W x 10 in H |
| Cork Roll Cut To 3 lineal feet | 24″ X 3/8″ | Bangor Cork | $27.20 Shipping – $16.30 | |
| Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil | Dollar General | $3.95 | ||
| Biscuit & Brownie pan | 11 x 7 | Dollar Tree | $1.25 | |
| Decorative Mint Stones | Dollar Tree | $1.25 | ||
| Glad Cling & Seal | This was already in my possession. I used a negligible amount. | |||
| Parchment Paper | This was already in my possession. I used a negligible amount. | |||
| Copper Foil sheet | 0.1 x 100 x 1000MM 39″ | Amazon | $7.99 | |
| Electrical Tape | This was already in my possession. I used a negligible amount. | |||
| Kapton Tape | This was already in my possession. I used a negligible amount. |
In order to perform future tests, I need a solution for reflectors. I do think another bag of rocks is necessary to increase heat retention; however, reflectors are key. I am open to suggestions.
