Finite Element Modelling of a Parabolic Trough Collector for Concentrated Solar Power

Andrea Gilioli, Francesco Cadini, Luca Abbiati, Giulio Angelo Guido Solero, Massimo Fossati, Andrea Manes, Lino Carnelli, Carla Lazzari, Stefano Cardamone and Marco Giglio
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Andrea Gilioli: Dipartimento di Meccanica—Politecnico di Milano, via La Masa 1, 20156 Milan, Italy
Francesco Cadini: Dipartimento di Meccanica—Politecnico di Milano, via La Masa 1, 20156 Milan, Italy
Luca Abbiati: Dipartimento di Meccanica—Politecnico di Milano, via La Masa 1, 20156 Milan, Italy
Giulio Angelo Guido Solero: Dipartimento di Energia—Politecnico di Milano, via Lambruschini, 20156 Milan, Italy
Massimo Fossati: Dipartimento di Meccanica—Politecnico di Milano, via La Masa 1, 20156 Milan, Italy
Andrea Manes: Dipartimento di Meccanica—Politecnico di Milano, via La Masa 1, 20156 Milan, Italy
Lino Carnelli: ENI SpA, Renewable Energy & Environmental R&D Center, Istituto ENI Donegani, 28100 Novara, Italy
Carla Lazzari: ENI SpA, Renewable Energy & Environmental R&D Center, Istituto ENI Donegani, 28100 Novara, Italy
Stefano Cardamone: ENI SpA, Renewable Energy & Environmental R&D Center, Istituto ENI Donegani, 28100 Novara, Italy
Marco Giglio: Dipartimento di Meccanica—Politecnico di Milano, via La Masa 1, 20156 Milan, Italy

Energies, 2021, vol. 14, issue 1, 1-26

Abstract: Nowadays the design of large-scale structures can be effectively improved by the adoption of numerical models. Even if experimental tests still play a fundamental role, a methodological approach that combines experimental testing and modelling technique can significantly improve the understanding of the matter. This, in fact, would result in a more reliable optimization process, drastically reducing efforts and uncertainties towards the implementation of the final product. The present work deals with the development of a finite element model for the analysis of a full-scale prototype of an innovative parabolic trough collector. The collector is analysed under several load conditions in order to evaluate its structural behaviour. Each load configuration is also numerically reproduced. Moreover, it is demonstrated that the model is capable of reproducing both the global (stiffness) and local (strain state) behaviour of the structure. Specifically, the comparison between experimental data and numerical results show a good agreement for the global parameter torsional stiffness. Local strain values are also well reproduced in high-stressed zone. Thus, the model can be used as a reliable “virtual tool” for designers to evaluate the suitability of layout modifications, thereby replacing and reducing the amount of commonly needed experimental tests and, consequently, reducing time and costs. Finally, an example of the potentiality of the finite element model adopted for a computer-aided engineering approach is shown to determine the most promising solution for increasing the torsional stiffness of the trough, while simultaneously limiting the required experimental tests.

Keywords: solar energy; concentrated solar power system; parabolic trough collector; numerical model; FEM; structural integrity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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