Thermo-optical modelling of the linear Fresnel collector at the Cyprus institute

Abstract

The present paper describes with accuracy the thermo-optical properties of the Fresnel collector currently in operation at the Cyprus Institute independently from its global location. It takes into consideration all optical losses in a perfect tracking environment based on the as-built parameters. The map of optical losses methodologically considers angle varying from 0° to 90° on both longitudinal and transversal angles to generate a global map of the losses. It gives an exact estimation of the maximum power that can be harvested on its absorber. The thermal analysis of the LFC receiver is performed in CFD environment (Solidworks Flow Simulation). Initially, the CFD model is compared to literature data and to a mathematical model (1D Heat Transfer Model - HTM) in order to prove the model consistency. Then, the CFD model is adjusted to the specific LFC characteristics, leading to the determination of the receiver heat losses calculations. Finally, parametric simulations are conducted by varying the oil temperature, the DNI level and the mass flow rate in order to assess their impact on the receiver performance.