Operation and Performance of the Solar Steam System at the Johnson & Johnson Plant in Sherman, Texas

Abstract

A solar system that produces 174° C (345° F) steam is in operation at the Johnson & Johnson manufacturing plant in Sherman, Texas. The system uses parabolic trough collectors to heat pressurized water which then flashes to steam in a flash boiler; this steam is fed into the plant steam main for use in several manufacturing processes. The facility’s performance has been monitored continuously since it began operation in January 1980. The collector field typically has delivered energy to the flash boiler at an average daily efficiency of 30 to 40 percent, with an hourly average efficiency ranging from 38 to 42 percent at peak insolation periods. The daily and hourly values for energy collected and steam generated on a clear day in September are presented, as well as a monthly summary for the first 13 months of operation.