A mathematical model to develop a Scheffler-type solar concentrator coupled with a Stirling engine

José Ruelas, Nicolás Velázquez and Jesús Cerezo

Applied Energy, 2013, vol. 101, issue C, 253-260

Abstract: This study develops and applies a new mathematical model for estimating the intercept factor of a Scheffler-type solar concentrator (STSC) based on the geometric and optical behaviour of the concentrator in Cartesian coordinates, and the incorporation of a thermal model of the receptor is performed using numerical examinations to determine the technical feasibility of attaching the STSC to a 3kWe Stirling engine. A numerical validation of the mathematical model is determined based on the experimental results reported for the WGA500 concentrator and the CNRS-PROMES system receiver. The numerical results allow for the design of the STSC and a comparison with a parabolic dish that provides the same thermal demand. Our findings show that the highest concentration was obtained with an edge angle of 45°, which was observed in the parabolic dish as well, but the STSC receiver shows a 7% increase in the thermal efficiency compared with the efficiency of the parabolic dish receiver. Finally, the STSC is appropriate for regions where the solar height allows for a reduction of convective thermal loss.

Keywords: Solar energy; Stirling engine; Intercept factor; Parabolic dish; Scheffler concentrator; Mathematical model (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2013
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (13)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:appene:v:101:y:2013:i:c:p:253-260

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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2012.05.040

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