The journey from raw materials to a fully functional industrial solar cooker involves steps that ensure both longevity and efficiency. After mastering structural fabrication, our V2SDF training entered a critical phase dedicated to protection and preservation.

From July 7th to 25th, 2025, the pilot workshops at LTCR Mushasha saw educators from CEM Gitaba, CEFORE Rusi, and LTCR Mushasha engage in an essential finishing process: the painting of the parabolic structure of the industrial SK-23 solar cooker.

This stage moved beyond pure metalwork into the realm of applied surface technology. Participants learned the importance of proper surface preparation—cleaning, degreasing, and priming the metal—before applying specialized protective paints. This coating is not merely cosmetic; it is the cooker's primary defense against the elements. The paint layer guards against corrosion, rust, and UV degradation, ensuring the steel skeleton withstands years of outdoor exposure in Burundi's climate.

Why Painting is a Critical Manufacturing Step:

• Long-Term Durability: A proper paint job is what transforms a metal structure into a durable, weather-resistant asset, directly impacting the cooker's service life and reducing long-term maintenance needs.

• Performance Preservation: By preventing rust and corrosion, the painting process protects the structural integrity and precise geometry of the parabola, which is essential for maintaining optimal reflective efficiency.

• Professional Finish: This stage instills an understanding of finish quality and attention to detail that defines professional manufacturing, teaching that a well-protected product reflects pride and sustainability.

In the workshop, the parabolic frames transitioned from bare metal to a uniform, protective coat. This visible transformation underscored a key project principle: building sustainable technology means building it to last. The educators gained hands-on experience in selecting appropriate materials, applying coatings evenly, and understanding drying and curing processes.

By incorporating this vital finishing technique into the curriculum, the V2SDF project ensures that the solar cookers produced will be robust, reliable, and ready to serve their communities for many years, turning a practical solution into a lasting legacy.

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