Thank you all - good points indeed. I agree that a parabolic reflector, especially one with a tracking mechanism, would be best, but the spirit of the design is to get some reflective benefit, while keeping the costs extremely low and the build relatively simple.
Regarding the PVC pipe, I'm thinking of using it for a form, but probably not including it in the final assembled panel now. Properly bent/assembled aluminum should hold itself together.
I guess the big question to answer is will the semi-circles reflect enough/any sunlight on the back and sides of the suspended copper pipe to make it worthwhile. If they do, it's possible that this rig would produce hotter water at lower ambient temperatures that plates alone would.
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