Performance Analysis of Open Steam Power Cycle Powered by Concentrated Solar Energy

Abstract

This study aims to develop a concentrated solar receiver designed to directly generate steam for driving a steam turbine within the steam power cycle of a carbon-free system. The solar power system consists of parabolic dishes, evaporation tanks, and a steam turbine, and the experimental setup was tested on different days, analyzing the measured parameters with the EES software. Results from the investigation indicate that, under the optimal conditions with a maximum recorded temperature and pressure of 143 ℃ and 2.5 bar, respectively, and a vaporized water mass of 100 grams, the manufactured turbine achieved a maximum isentropic efficiency of 92.48% and a power of 1.76 W. Notably, the evaporation tank and the mini steam turbine demonstrated the capability to generate steam and mechanical power, respectively, without relying on conventional energy.