Wind load reduction for light-weight heliostats

Abstract

At SolarPACES 2012 conference a new heliostat concept was presented. It is equipped with wireless communication, sandwich facets, wind protection devices for wind load reduction, rim drives with winch wheels and ground anchor foundation. Crucial for the development of the light-weight structures is the precise determination of the maximum loads. By full scale wind load measurements the duration of the peak loads could be determined. They are caused by gusts with such short duration that their energy can be dissipated by shock absorbers protecting the structure. Furthermore, the wind loads can be reduced by wind protection devices. For the design-relevant stow position, a reduction in structural loading of 40 % can be achieved by the wind protection devices as wind tunnel tests have shown. The reduced loading has a significant impact on the dimensioning and cost of the structure and foundation of the heliostat. The systems for wind load reduction can be used for any kind of heliostat to reduce weight and cost.