Abstract: Various embodiments provide an absorber tube that comprises an inner tube having an exterior surface, at least a portion of which contains a plurality of coating layers. The absorber tube also includes an outer tube spaced apart from the inner tube so as to define a cavity between the two. At least one of the coating layers may be configured to substantially impede migration of gaseous particles from the interior surface and into said cavity. At least one of the coating layers may be a reflective copper coating that is adhered to the exterior surface via an electrical charging process. An absorber tube comprising a connecting member between central and end portions of the tube is also provided. The central portion may be formed from carbon steel, while remaining portions are formed from stainless steel. Coating layers may be likewise adhered to only the central portion.

Abstract: A solar collector system is provided that comprises an absorber tube, a primary reflector, and a secondary reflector. In certain embodiments, the primary and secondary reflectors are positioned on opposing sides of the absorber tube, such that their respective focal points converge upon a longitudinal axis of the absorber tube. The secondary reflector may be configured with a substantially transparent surface facing away from the absorber tube, so as to permit passage of light beams there-through. Opposing surfaces of the secondary and primary reflectors, namely those facing substantially toward the absorber tube contain a reflective coating thereon to facilitate redirection of light beams toward the absorber tube. The solar collector system includes in certain embodiments a frame assembly, whereby the primary reflector, the secondary reflector, and the absorber tube are all configured to unitarily rotate about a common pivot axis defined by at least a portion of the frame assembly.