A coupled fluid-thermo-mechanical evaluation of various freeze recovery strategies for molten salt parabolic trough collectors

Abstract

This research advances the field of Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) by offering a comprehensive assessment of freeze-recovery strategies for molten salt parabolic trough collectors, essential for the next generation of CSP plants. Employing a cutting-edge transient 3D Conjugate Heat Transfer (CHT) model, the research elucidates the significant yet previously underestimated role of natural convection in the phase transition of solidified salts. The study demonstrates that the strategic inclusion of impedance heating not only accelerates the defrosting process but also minimizes thermal stresses within the absorber tubes, ensuring mechanical integrity. Moreover, the dual-method approach, which combines solar and impedance heating, reveals a potential to improve the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) by 4% annually following a complete freeze event. The research conclusively suggests that this synergistic strategy could yield substantial operational cost savings while maintaining the structural robustness of CSP systems. The presented findings provide a detailed blueprint for enhancing plant resilience and economic viability, opening new avenues for operational excellence in CSP technology.