Linear focus solar simulator test bench for non-destructive optical efficiency testing of parabolic trough receivers

Abstract

This paper describes a new 2nd generation linear focus solar simulator test bench. The test bench is used for the non-destructive calorimetric measurement of relative optical efficiency of parabolic trough receivers. Compared to the predecessor, the test bench has been optimized for faster measurement, better long term stability and easier operation. The test bench optics is an elliptical shaped glass mirror trough with flat end mirrors. The receiver and six solar simulator lamps, metal halide lamps with 2.5 kWe each are located in their respective focal lines. Absorbed power is measured via temperature increase of the water flowing through the receiver and the mass flow rate. By comparison to the absorbed power of a reference receiver, the optical efficiency of a sample can be determined relative to the optical efficiency of the reference receiver.