Freeform beam-down secondary concentrators for heliostat fields

Håkon J. D. Johnsen

doi:10.1117/12.3027725

2 October 2024 Freeform beam-down secondary concentrators for heliostat fields

Håkon J. D. Johnsen

Proceedings Volume PC13132, Nonimaging Optics: Efficient Design for Illumination and Concentration XIX; PC131320C (2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3027725
Event: Optical Engineering + Applications, 2024, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

We introduce a new type of secondary concentrator for solar towers, utilizing a freeform reflector in a beam-down setup to significantly enhance concentration ratios. By optimizing the reflector's shape and the heliostat aiming strategy, our designs approach aplanatic conditions, doubling to tripling concentration ratios while maintaining a significant gap between concentrator and receiver unlike existing CPC secondary concentrators. The compact design allows a multi-MW solar field to share a single secondary concentrator and receiver aperture. We show simulations of and example design for the 2.5MWth SSPS-CRS heliostat field in Almeria, Spain, demonstrating a secondary concentrator not larger than the existing tower. Furthermore, we discuss implications this type of concentrator has for heliostat field design, both in terms of heliostat size and field layout.

Conference Presentation

Citation Download Citation

Håkon J. D. Johnsen "Freeform beam-down secondary concentrators for heliostat fields", Proc. SPIE PC13132, Nonimaging Optics: Efficient Design for Illumination and Concentration XIX, PC131320C (2 October 2024); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3027725

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