Performance Evaluation of the 200-kWth HiTRec-II Open Volumetric Air Receiver

Abstract

The High Temperature Receiver (HitTRec) consists of a modular ceramic absorber, a supporting structure and an air-return system. It has been designed to prevent possible flow instability at 700–800°C average outlet air temperature with atmospheric pressure. The HiTRec-II prototype was developed to solve the structural problems of the first prototype (HiTRec-I). Testing in the Plataforma Solar de Almerı́a (PSA) test bed lasted from November 2000 through May 2001, accumulating 150 test hours under concentrated sun. Results demonstrated the durability of the modified stainless-steel structure. Inlet aperture flux was up to 900 kW/m2 and average outlet air temperatures of up to 840°C with peak outlet air temperatures of up to 950°C. Thermal efficiency under steady-state conditions was (76±7)% at 700°C, nominal conditions for a PHOEBUS-type volumetric receiver. Other performance characteristics were also evaluated (e.g., Air Return Ratio of 46% and characteristic receiver response time of 70 s).