Design Methodology and Experimental Platform for the Validation of PCM Storage Modules for DSG Solar Plants

Abstract

The availability of cost-effective heat storage solutions is one of the key elements for the successful implementation of Direct Steam generation (DSG) solar plants. The most promising storage system for DSG solar plants consists of a 3-stage system whose key element is a Phase Change Material (PCM) latent heat module.In the framework of two large Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) projects, CEA-INES is involved in the development of heat storage systems for large scale DSG solar plants. Within these projects CEA-INES is setting up a unique testing platform consisting of all the required tools for the full qualification of the critical PCM storage modules.The PCM storage testing platform includes low temperature testing rigs to test the storage phenomenology and validate the performance simulation models for the selected PCM heat exchanger elements, testing equipment for the durability assessment of the key components up to a high pressure water steam testing rig able to test at lab-scale the PCM modules in real operating conditions. Most of these tools are currently in operation and the few remaining are about to be commissioned.The paper illustrates the CEA-INES design methodology for the development of the PCM storage modules and describes the most relevant tools of the CEA-INES test platform discussing how these tools are integral part of the PCM storage module design process. A few case studies and the results of the validation activity for some reference geometries are also presented.