Methodology for an Opto-Geometric Optimization of a Linear Fresnel Reflector for Direct Steam Generation

Abstract

A methodology for an optical optimization of the intercept factor concerning a linear Fresnel reflector is described to increase the amount of solar irradiation that will be delivered in the absorber for Agua Prieta, Sonora; taking the FRESDEMO’s Fresnel field as the reference design. For the performed optimization, the intercept factor is determined as a function of the receiver’s height, establishing a simple criterion for the optimization. The FRESDEMO’s field description is determined and briefly discussed, next compared with the proposed optimization. The compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) Winston function for a circular absorber is modified to relocate the cusp of the reflector and the absorber. This modified CPC will redirect all the reflected rays that do not hit directly the absorber, as in the FRESDEMO field, so all of them are captured by the absorber. Through ray-tracing, the graphic flux distribution in the receiver aperture is conceived. This flux distribution is compared with the FRESDEMO field and with a PTC with a flat absorber, ensuring an adequate optimization regarding the intercept factor. The result of the opto-geometric optimization is compared between the FRESDEMO and the optimized field for a specified thermal process, addressing a considerable reduction in the length of the loops.