Structural optimization of a new line-focusing solar collector with a fixed absorber tube

Abstract

This work is linked to a previous study about a new concept for line-concentrating solar power (CSP) collectors with fixed absorber tube, developed in the German Aerospace Centre (DLR). As a result of that study, it was found out, that significant cost reduction and amelioration of performance can be reached compared to usual parabolic troughs or Fresnel collectors by implementing a new concentrator design with stationary absorber tube and segmented mirror surface. For a profound estimation of the optical efficiency and material costs, detailed finite element method (FEM) analysis of the structure is essential. In this work, a pre-designed structure will be evaluated, re-dimensioned and optimized by examination of deformation under dead load and wind load through FEM analysis. The aim of this work is to determine appropriate geometry and dimensions of the structure to obtain a certain performance efficiency. Additional structural elements might be added to the predesigned structure if necessary. This includes writing a program in ANSYS and then performing optimizations with it to obtain reasonable results. Based on this work, material cost and efficiency estimations can be done in a later process, to decide whether the concept is worth-continuing or not.