Link to document:
Status
Electronic Resource
Call number
Publication
SAND Report: SAND78-7022, March 1979.
Collection
Language
Library's review
ABSTRACT:
A preliminary design for a low-cost linear parabolic concentrating solar collector in a pneumatically stabilized cylindrical plastic film enclosure and analyses of its theoretical performance and projected costs are described. Potential applications for the concentrator are in heating
A preliminary design for a low-cost linear parabolic concentrating solar collector in a pneumatically stabilized cylindrical plastic film enclosure and analyses of its theoretical performance and projected costs are described. Potential applications for the concentrator are in heating
Show More
fluids to the mid-temperature range for use in industrial process heating. The study objective was to develop an inovative design concept having pneumatically stabilized plastic film enclosure as an approach to achieving low collector cost. Both circular film and rigid parabolic reflector concepts were investigated; the concept fulfilling the study objective has a lightweight aluminum honeycomb sandwich parabolic trough reflector with an aluminized polyester film reflective surface. The reflector panels and a black-chrome plated carbon steel absorber tube are supported at intervals by rings with spokes. Cylindrical film enclosure sections are attached to the rings which are supported by rollers; this assembly rotates about the fixed absorber tube and is driven by an electric gearmotor and microprocessor-based control system. The pneumatically stabilized enclosure provides effective structural rigidity resulting in overall light concentrator weight and good performance in windy conditions. Also, the enclosure completely protects the reflector and absorber from wind, dust and weather. Key design features for a collector with a weatherized polyester enclosure 2.8 m 2 diameter by 30.5 m long (9.33 by 100 ft.) and an aperture area of 69.3m (745.9 ft ) are given. For this collector configuration, structural analyses, thermal performance modeling, mass-produced component costs, field assembly methods and maintenance requirements are discussed. Daily efficiencies in excess of 45% are predicted with estimated installed field collector costs of $90/m^ ($8.34/ft^). Results of cost and performance studies indicate that the collector has potential for low cost and offers attractive cost/performance figures-of-merit with further development. Show Less