Abstract
A parabolic trough collector is the most widely implemented concentrated solar heat collecting device. The performance of the same critically depends on how far the actual optical setup differs from the mathematical ideality. Such a study enables one to quantitatively compare the relative significance of different irregularities and channelize the engineering effort to address the critical ones within a threshold of added cost. The following irregularities are tested in the present work, both individually and simultaneously: absorber tube misalignment, random profile error, narrowed and widened reflector profile, tracking error. A grid and ray independent model as implemented in COMSOL Multiphysics 5.4 is employed. It is duly validated against prior studies. The tested collector parameters are the same as that of SEGS LS2 PTC. It is observed that a tracking error up to 10 mrad causes minimal loss of performance. Misalignment error and narrowing of reflector profile not only cause loss of total heat interception but also produce abnormally high local heat flux which may lead to damage to the absorber tube coating and cover system. Simultaneous occurrence of multiple irregularities can lead to major loss of performance (in the current study ∼50%); hence, calls for intervention and remediation.
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