Two-step optimization procedure for the conceptual design of A-frame systems for solar power plants

José A. Luceño and Mariano Martín

Energy, 2018, vol. 165, issue PB, 483-500

Abstract: This work presents a two-stage optimization procedure for the conceptual design and operation of A-frame dry cooling systems for concentrated solar power facilities. First, the optimal geometry of the A-frame including sizing, number of fans and blade geometry, and unit parameters such as pipe length, configuration and number is determined. Finally, the operation of the system over a year for minimum energy consumption is computed. The geometry problem is formulated as a mixed-integer non linear programming (MINLP) problem. A tailor-made branch and bound algorithm is used to solve the complex non-linear programming sub-problems. The second problem consists of a multi-period MINLP. A fixed geometry is used to evaluate the usage of fans over time. The solution suggests an apex angle of 63°, one row of 75 pipes of 13.5 m long with a diameter of 3.3 mm, and 4 fans are used but they only operate at full capacity during summer. This design allows reducing the energy required by 20% by using the appropriate pipe configuration and number. The unit consumes around 4% of the energy produced by the CSP plant that serves. It is a promising result that can be affected by plant layout and ground availability.

Keywords: Energy; Concentrated solar power; A-frame; Dry cooling; Mathematical optimization; Operation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2018
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:energy:v:165:y:2018:i:pb:p:483-500

DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2018.09.177

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