US20150308717A1 - Improved Element for Processing Solar Radiation, and a Sun Tracker and a Solar Farm Equipped with Such an Element - Google Patents
Improved Element for Processing Solar Radiation, and a Sun Tracker and a Solar Farm Equipped with Such an Element Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150308717A1 US20150308717A1 US14/651,090 US201314651090A US2015308717A1 US 20150308717 A1 US20150308717 A1 US 20150308717A1 US 201314651090 A US201314651090 A US 201314651090A US 2015308717 A1 US2015308717 A1 US 2015308717A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- solar
- processing
- layer
- radiation
- solar radiation
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 115
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 33
- 239000013529 heat transfer fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000004381 surface treatment Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000009833 condensation Methods 0.000 description 8
- 230000005494 condensation Effects 0.000 description 8
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000012080 ambient air Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002918 waste heat Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000010795 Steam Flooding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003570 air Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012141 concentrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004922 lacquer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002651 laminated plastic film Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001737 promoting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002285 radioactive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000010409 thin film Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004804 winding Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D20/00—Heat storage plants or apparatus in general; Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups F28D17/00 or F28D19/00
- F28D20/0052—Heat storage plants or apparatus in general; Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups F28D17/00 or F28D19/00 using the ground body or aquifers as heat storage medium
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S10/00—Solar heat collectors using working fluids
- F24S10/40—Solar heat collectors using working fluids in absorbing elements surrounded by transparent enclosures, e.g. evacuated solar collectors
-
- F24J2/05—
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F22—STEAM GENERATION
- F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
- F22B1/00—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method
- F22B1/006—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method using solar heat
-
- F24J2/242—
-
- F24J2/38—
-
- F24J2/4641—
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S10/00—Solar heat collectors using working fluids
- F24S10/70—Solar heat collectors using working fluids the working fluids being conveyed through tubular absorbing conduits
- F24S10/72—Solar heat collectors using working fluids the working fluids being conveyed through tubular absorbing conduits the tubular conduits being integrated in a block; the tubular conduits touching each other
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S23/00—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors
- F24S23/70—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors
- F24S23/74—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors with trough-shaped or cylindro-parabolic reflective surfaces
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S23/00—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors
- F24S23/70—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors
- F24S23/77—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors with flat reflective plates
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
- F24S30/40—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement
- F24S30/42—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with only one rotation axis
- F24S30/425—Horizontal axis
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S40/00—Safety or protection arrangements of solar heat collectors; Preventing malfunction of solar heat collectors
- F24S40/20—Cleaning; Removing snow
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S40/00—Safety or protection arrangements of solar heat collectors; Preventing malfunction of solar heat collectors
- F24S40/50—Preventing overheating or overpressure
- F24S40/55—Arrangements for cooling, e.g. by using external heat dissipating means or internal cooling circuits
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S50/00—Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S50/00—Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors
- F24S50/20—Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for tracking
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S80/00—Details, accessories or component parts of solar heat collectors not provided for in groups F24S10/00-F24S70/00
- F24S80/40—Casings
- F24S80/45—Casings characterised by the material
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24T—GEOTHERMAL COLLECTORS; GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS
- F24T10/00—Geothermal collectors
- F24T10/10—Geothermal collectors with circulation of working fluids through underground channels, the working fluids not coming into direct contact with the ground
- F24T10/13—Geothermal collectors with circulation of working fluids through underground channels, the working fluids not coming into direct contact with the ground using tube assemblies suitable for insertion into boreholes in the ground, e.g. geothermal probes
- F24T10/17—Geothermal collectors with circulation of working fluids through underground channels, the working fluids not coming into direct contact with the ground using tube assemblies suitable for insertion into boreholes in the ground, e.g. geothermal probes using tubes closed at one end, i.e. return-type tubes
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S20/00—Supporting structures for PV modules
- H02S20/30—Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
- H02S40/40—Thermal components
- H02S40/44—Means to utilise heat energy, e.g. hybrid systems producing warm water and electricity at the same time
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S23/00—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors
- F24S23/70—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors
- F24S2023/86—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors in the form of reflective coatings
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
- F24S25/10—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/10—Geothermal energy
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
- Y02E10/44—Heat exchange systems
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
- Y02E10/47—Mountings or tracking
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/60—Thermal-PV hybrids
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/14—Thermal energy storage
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E70/00—Other energy conversion or management systems reducing GHG emissions
- Y02E70/30—Systems combining energy storage with energy generation of non-fossil origin
Definitions
- the invention relates to an element for processing solar radiation improved to emit infrared radiation. It also relates to a solar tracker comprising such an element. Lastly, the invention also relates to a concentrated solar power plant equipped with such solar trackers.
- thermodynamic cycle implemented in a CSP plant produces what is referred to as low-temperature-level waste heat that must be evacuated via the condenser of the CSP plant.
- the temperature level is about 55° C. and the heat produced is about 2 thermal megawatts for 1 megawatt of generated electricity.
- this extraction of heat is achieved by way of water towers that consume substantial amounts of water, about 3.5 to 4 m 3 of water per MWhe. Such a water consumption is unacceptable in arid regions that are liable to be suitable for such CSP plants.
- An alternative to the use of water towers consists in extracting the heat by exchange with the ambient air using forced convection exchangers.
- the use of forced convection exchangers is conditional upon the ambient temperature being close to the condensation point.
- the use of forced convection exchangers does not allow under-cooling to be achieved and induces a decrease in the thermodynamic efficiency of the thermodynamic cycle implemented by the CSP plant of about 2 to 3%, and an increase in the cost of the electricity thus generated of about 3 to 8%.
- regular cleaning of the mirrors of the solar field is indispensable and represents a large investment in terms of man-hours, on the one hand, and, on the other hand, requires water representing about 2% of the total water consumption of the CSP plant in question to be used.
- One aim of the invention is to provide a system allowing the aforementioned problems to be solved.
- an element for processing solar radiation comprising means for processing solar radiation forming a layer of the element for processing solar radiation, and a layer of material emissive of radiation, especially infrared radiation, covering the processing means layer.
- the use of a layer of material emissive of radiation, such as infrared radiation, covering the processing means layer of the processing element makes it possible to obtain an emission of radiation directed toward space, which acts as a cold body (because it has a temperature of about 3° K, i.e. ⁇ 270° C.), and therefore makes it possible to evacuate heat by radiation from the element for processing solar radiation toward space. Such an evacuation of heat consumes no water to this end.
- a layer of material emissive of radiation such as infrared radiation
- the processing element according to the invention has at least one of the following technical features:
- a solar tracker comprising a structure movably mounted on a construction implanted in a ground portion, comprising at least one processing element having at least one of the above technical features.
- the solar tracker has at least one of the following additional technical features:
- Provision is also made, also according to the invention, for a concentrated solar power plant comprising a condenser equipped with a heat exchanger, and a series of solar trackers having at least one of the above technical features.
- the concentrated solar power plant has at least one of the following additional technical features:
- FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an element for processing solar radiation according to the invention
- FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a solar tracker according to the invention comprising processing elements such as shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a solar tracker according to the invention comprising a processing element such as shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is a schematic view of an installation and connection of at least two solar trackers such as shown in FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 5 is a schematic view illustrating a cooling circuit of a CSP plant according to the invention comprising a field of solar trackers such as shown in FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating a solar plant equipped with solar trackers, according to the invention.
- the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention comprises means for processing solar radiation forming a layer 2 .
- These means for processing solar radiation are a reflective mirror in the context of an application to a concentrated solar power plant.
- the means for processing solar radiation may be photovoltaic cells or any other device allowing solar radiation received by the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to be processed.
- the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention furthermore comprises a layer 1 of material emissive of radiation.
- This layer 1 of material emissive of radiation is produced so as to cover the processing means layer 2 of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention.
- This layer 1 of material emissive of radiation forms a thin film that is added to an upper surface of the processing means layer 2 .
- the layer 1 of material emissive of radiation is produced by a surface treatment of the upper surface of the processing means layer 2 .
- the one or more materials used to produce the layer 1 of material emissive of radiation are chosen so as to optimize the emission of radiation E R at a certain wavelength that allows thermal energy to be exchanged with space through the Earth's atmosphere, once the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention has been installed on a portion of the Earth's surface.
- the wavelength of the radiation E R enabling such heat exchange is in the wavelengths of the infrared, in particular and preferably between 8 and 16 ⁇ m. This makes it possible to optimize the heat exchange that occurs naturally between two bodies having two surfaces facing each other and the temperatures of which are different. Specifically, a radiative heat exchange thus takes place and is dependent on the difference in the power 4 of the temperatures of the two facing bodies.
- the layer 1 of material emissive of radiation may be produced using a lacquer or a laminated plastic film, or even be made of glass. Thus, it is possible to obtain a radiative heat exchange of about 50 W/m 2 .
- the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention comprises a layer 3 forming a heat exchanger.
- This layer 3 forming a heat exchanger is positioned on a lower surface of the processing means layer 2 , which lower surface is opposite the upper surface of the processing means layer 2 that receives the layer 1 of material emissive of radiation.
- This layer 3 forming a heat exchanger here comprises a network of ducts 5 winding under and making thermal contact with the lower surface of the processing means layer 2 of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention.
- the network of ducts 5 forms a single circuit and comprises an inlet 7 and an outlet 6 in order to allow a heat-transfer fluid to be made to flow within the network of ducts 5 forming the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger.
- the network of ducts 5 may be embedded in a material promoting heat exchange between the lower surface of the processing means layer 2 and the network of ducts 5 in which the heat-transfer fluid flows between the inlet 7 and the outlet 6 .
- the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention comprises an insulating lower layer 4 positioned below the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger.
- This insulating lower layer 4 makes it possible to minimize heat exchange between the ground above which the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention is installed and said element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention.
- this insulating lower layer 4 makes it possible to promote and protect heat exchange between the processing means layer 2 and the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger.
- the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention allows heat to be exchanged without the consumption of water being necessary. Heat is exchanged, using the emission of radiation E R , with space. Furthermore, heat is naturally transferred by convection between the upper surface of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention and the atmosphere. Lastly, heat exchange occurs with the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger.
- the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention will make it possible to maintain an optimal operating temperature for the means for processing solar radiation that form the layer 2 of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention.
- the network of ducts 5 of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention is fluidically connected to a heat exchanger of a condenser of the CSP plant and thus it is possible for the production of heat referred to as low-temperature-level waste heat to be evacuated via this condenser.
- the structure of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention will allow the temperature of the upper surface of the layer 1 of material emissive of radiation of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to be decreased below the dew point temperature. This will make it possible to condense, on this upper surface of the layer 1 of material emissive of radiation of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, moisture contained in the ambient air. The water thus formed on the surface will allow this surface to be cleaned naturally. In addition, if a large amount of water is thus produced by condensation, the surplus is collected for subsequent use. This production of water is about 200 to 1000 liters for every 500 m 2 of area of element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention.
- the solar tracker 20 according to the invention is here a parabolic solar tracker comprising two elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, which are preferably curved in order to form a parabola.
- the layer 1 of material emissive of radiation of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention is located on the interior of the parabola formed by the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, whereas the insulating lower layer 4 is positioned on the exterior of the solar tracker 20 according to the invention.
- the processing means layer 2 here forms a mirror, solar radiation is reflected by the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention toward a focal point of the parabola formed by this element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention.
- the focal point is occupied by a tubular furnace 21 in which flows a heat-transfer fluid that collects the solar energy thus reflected by the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention of the solar tracker 20 according to the invention.
- the two elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, forming the solar tracker 20 according to the invention are positioned side-by-side so as to form a basin and are separated, at a low point, by a passage 23 .
- the solar tracker 20 comprises means for collecting trickling water 22 , here taking the form of a drain pipe.
- trickling water 22 here taking the form of a drain pipe.
- the solar tracker 30 according to this second embodiment of the invention is here a flat solar tracker comprising an element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention installed on a structure 31 itself pivotably mounted on a construction 32 , for example taking the form of a pole, allowing the solar tracker 30 according to the invention to be installed on a ground portion S of a site.
- the solar tracker 30 comprises means for collecting trickling water 22 , here again taking the form of a drain pipe. Operation overnight is identical here as for the solar tracker 20 according to the invention of the first embodiment described above.
- the tracker 30 according to the invention may allow the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, which here forms a plane, to be inclined by an amount that enables this trickling to be achieved.
- the orientation of the elements for processing solar radiation according to the invention is achieved, in a way known per se, by a system for controlling an orientation of the structure (not shown), which allows the structure of the solar tracker and therefore the elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to be oriented so that the radiation emitted by the sun during the day strikes the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention at an optimal angle.
- This control is carried out during daylight hours.
- the system for controlling an orientation of the structure is used to orient consequently the elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention in order to optimize heat exchange, on the one hand, and above all, on the other hand, to optimize the production of water.
- the system for controlling an orientation of the structure orients the elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention depending on the meteorological conditions in the vicinity of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, in particular depending on wind strength/direction as wind has a tendency to dry the water obtained by the condensation.
- the system for controlling an orientation of the structure allows, at regular intervals overnight, the inclination of the elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to be abruptly changed for a short period of time so as to cause the water condensed on the surface of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to trickle and to ensure that this water trickles toward the means 22 for collecting trickling water, which means are installed on the solar trackers controlled by the system for controlling an orientation of the structure.
- Each of the solar trackers 30 according to the invention here comprises, within its construction 32 , a geothermal exchanger buried in the ground S on which the solar trackers 30 according to the invention are installed.
- This heat exchanger is optional in the arrangement of two solar trackers according to the invention.
- the geothermal exchanger is produced using feet of the construction 32 which take the form of two coaxial tubes 324 and 323 .
- the two tubes 323 and 324 are designed to allow a heat-transfer fluid to be made to flow therein and thus form a geothermal exchanger in one portion of the feet of the construction 32 , said portion being buried in the ground S.
- the fluid outlet 6 of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention is connected to an inlet 321 of the interior tube 323 whereas an outlet 322 of the external tube 324 is connected to the inlet 7 of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention.
- the heat-transfer fluid flowing in the network of ducts 5 of the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger after having absorbed heat from the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, especially if it is a question of an element comprising photovoltaic cells, will flow through the geothermal exchanger in the tubes 323 and 324 and transmit this heat to the ground S via an exchange E S of heat.
- the cooled heat-transfer fluid is reinjected through the inlet 7 into the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention.
- the inlet 7 of the first solar tracker 30 according to the invention is connected to a supply duct 40 for example originating from another solar tracker.
- the outlet 6 of the first solar tracker 30 according to the invention is connected to the inlet 321 of the geothermal exchanger of this first solar tracker 30 according to the invention.
- the outlet 322 of the geothermal exchanger of the first solar tracker 30 according to the invention is connected to the inlet of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention of the second tracker 30 according to the invention using a duct 42 .
- the outlet 6 of the element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention of the second solar tracker 30 according to the invention is connected to the duct 43 at the inlet of the thermal exchanger of the second solar tracker 30 according to the invention.
- the outlet of the heat exchanger of this second solar tracker 30 is connected to the following solar tracker using a duct 44 and so on.
- the outlet 6 of the first solar tracker 30 is directly connected to the inlet 7 of the second solar tracker 30 .
- an exchanger 100 of a condenser of a CSP type condensation solar power plant comprising a solar field including elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention installed on solar trackers of the solar field of the CSP plant.
- the various elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention of the solar field are connected to one another as described above with reference to FIG. 3 .
- outlet 6 of the heat exchanger of the last solar tracker 30 is connected to an inlet of the exchanger 100 of the condenser of the CSP plant via the duct 44 whereas an outlet of the exchanger 102 of the condenser of the CSP plant is fluidically connected by the duct 40 to the inlet 7 of the first solar tracker 30 of the solar field.
- a three-way valve 101 is installed at the inlet of the exchanger 100 of the condenser of the CSP plant an outlet of which is connected using a duct 103 to the outlet of a second three-way valve 102 installed at the outlet of the exchanger of the condenser of the CSP plant.
- FIG. 6 illustrates, schematically, a CSP type condensation solar power plant equipped with a plurality of elements 10 for processing solar radiation, namely two in the example shown, each formed from a mirror that concentrates solar radiation on a tubular collector 105 .
- These collectors are mounted in series and passed through by the heat-transfer fluid that forms the heat source of the evaporator exchanger 107 of the plant.
- This heat-transfer fluid is heated by absorption of the solar radiation reflected by the elements 10 for processing solar radiation.
- a pump 107 pumps the heated fluid into the evaporator exchanger 107 of the plant.
- the heat-transfer fluid heated by the elements 10 serves to produce steam.
- This pressurized steam drives the electricity generating turbine 111 of the plant.
- the low-pressure steam output from the turbine 111 is then condensed by way of the condenser exchanger 100 .
- the working fluid is made to flow by a pump 115 that increases the pressure of the fluid in this closed circuit.
- it is the fluid flowing under the effect of a pump 117 through the heat exchangers of the elements 10 for processing solar radiation that serves as a cold source in the heat exchanger 100 .
- the heat absorbed during the condensation is transferred to the exterior by the elements 10 for processing solar radiation, on the one hand by convection, and on the other hand by radiation by virtue of the layer of emissive materials, which especially emit infrared radiation.
- cooling circuit formed by the heat exchangers of the trackers may also comprise supporting constructions taking the form of poles, in accordance with FIG. 5 .
- the use of elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention on solar trackers forming the solar field of the CSP plant allows said solar field of the CSP plant to be used as a macro heat exchanger by associating the convective and radiative transfer described above.
- a considerable area of exchange is made available, about 10,000 to 13,000 square meters per MWhe, enabling the heat of condensation issued from the exchanger 100 of the condenser of the plant to be extracted, but also the thermodynamic cycle implemented by the CSP plant thus equipped to be under-cooled and the efficiency thereof thus to be improved.
- the solar field is thus exploited not only during the day but also during the night and its relative investment cost is therefore decreased by crossover.
- the invention such as described above allows the need to evacuate heat to be met without any water consumption and simultaneously allows the performance of the thermodynamic cycles implemented by the CSP plant thus equipped to be improved. On the whole, the water consumption of the CSP plant thus equipped is thus decreased by more than about 90%. Because there is no need for any water tower to cool the thermodynamic cycle. Furthermore, the use of the surfaces of the elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention equipping the solar field as radioactive exchange surfaces overnight also allows ambient moisture to be condensed from the surrounding air. Thus, the condensates formed flow gravitationally into the means 22 for collecting trickling water equipping the various solar trackers of the solar field, cleaning the upper surface of the elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. The water thus produced is collected by the means 22 for collecting trickling water and then easily put to use. The solar field is then no longer the origin of water consumption but an actual producer of this usable water and the elements for processing solar radiation are therefore cleaned without any need for human intervention.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Heat Treatment Of Water, Waste Water Or Sewage (AREA)
- Photovoltaic Devices (AREA)
- Protection Of Plants (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The invention relates to an element for processing solar radiation improved to emit infrared radiation. It also relates to a solar tracker comprising such an element. Lastly, the invention also relates to a concentrated solar power plant equipped with such solar trackers.
- In the context of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, a thermodynamic cycle implemented in a CSP plant produces what is referred to as low-temperature-level waste heat that must be evacuated via the condenser of the CSP plant. Typically, the temperature level is about 55° C. and the heat produced is about 2 thermal megawatts for 1 megawatt of generated electricity. At the present time, this extraction of heat is achieved by way of water towers that consume substantial amounts of water, about 3.5 to 4 m3 of water per MWhe. Such a water consumption is unacceptable in arid regions that are liable to be suitable for such CSP plants. An alternative to the use of water towers consists in extracting the heat by exchange with the ambient air using forced convection exchangers. However, the use of forced convection exchangers is conditional upon the ambient temperature being close to the condensation point. Thus, the use of forced convection exchangers does not allow under-cooling to be achieved and induces a decrease in the thermodynamic efficiency of the thermodynamic cycle implemented by the CSP plant of about 2 to 3%, and an increase in the cost of the electricity thus generated of about 3 to 8%. Furthermore, in CSP plants, regular cleaning of the mirrors of the solar field is indispensable and represents a large investment in terms of man-hours, on the one hand, and, on the other hand, requires water representing about 2% of the total water consumption of the CSP plant in question to be used.
- One aim of the invention is to provide a system allowing the aforementioned problems to be solved.
- For this purpose, provision is made, according to the invention, for an element for processing solar radiation comprising means for processing solar radiation forming a layer of the element for processing solar radiation, and a layer of material emissive of radiation, especially infrared radiation, covering the processing means layer.
- Thus, the use of a layer of material emissive of radiation, such as infrared radiation, covering the processing means layer of the processing element makes it possible to obtain an emission of radiation directed toward space, which acts as a cold body (because it has a temperature of about 3° K, i.e. −270° C.), and therefore makes it possible to evacuate heat by radiation from the element for processing solar radiation toward space. Such an evacuation of heat consumes no water to this end.
- Advantageously, but optionally, the processing element according to the invention has at least one of the following technical features:
-
- the processing element furthermore comprises a layer forming a heat exchanger located under and covered by the processing means layer;
- the processing element furthermore comprises an insulating lower layer;
- the layer forming a heat exchanger comprises in a thickness a network of ducts in which a heat-transfer fluid flows and comprising a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; and
- the layer of emissive material is produced by a surface treatment of a surface of the processing means layer.
- Provision is also made, according to the invention, for a solar tracker comprising a structure movably mounted on a construction implanted in a ground portion, comprising at least one processing element having at least one of the above technical features.
- Advantageously, but optionally, the solar tracker has at least one of the following additional technical features:
-
- the solar tracker furthermore comprises means for collecting water trickling over the layer of emissive material of the processing element;
- the solar tracker is controlled by a system for controlling an orientation of the structure, the control system being arranged so as to adapt the orientation of the solar element depending on climatic conditions around the processing element; and
- the solar tracker furthermore comprises means for fluidically connecting the layer forming a heat exchanger with a geothermal exchanger buried in the ground portion.
- Provision is also made, also according to the invention, for a concentrated solar power plant comprising a condenser equipped with a heat exchanger, and a series of solar trackers having at least one of the above technical features.
- Advantageously, but optionally, the concentrated solar power plant has at least one of the following additional technical features:
-
- the layers forming a heat exchanger of each of the processing elements of the series of solar trackers are fluidically connected to one another so as to form a single cooling circuit; and
- the heat exchanger of the condenser is fluidically connected to the single cooling circuit.
- Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following description of an embodiment of the invention. In the appended drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an element for processing solar radiation according to the invention; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a solar tracker according to the invention comprising processing elements such as shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a solar tracker according to the invention comprising a processing element such as shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a schematic view of an installation and connection of at least two solar trackers such as shown inFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 5 is a schematic view illustrating a cooling circuit of a CSP plant according to the invention comprising a field of solar trackers such as shown inFIG. 3 ; and -
FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating a solar plant equipped with solar trackers, according to the invention. - With reference to
FIG. 1 , anelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention will now be described. Theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention comprises means for processing solar radiation forming a layer 2. These means for processing solar radiation are a reflective mirror in the context of an application to a concentrated solar power plant. As a variant embodiment, the means for processing solar radiation may be photovoltaic cells or any other device allowing solar radiation received by theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to be processed. - The
element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention furthermore comprises alayer 1 of material emissive of radiation. Thislayer 1 of material emissive of radiation is produced so as to cover the processing means layer 2 of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. Thislayer 1 of material emissive of radiation forms a thin film that is added to an upper surface of the processing means layer 2. As a variant embodiment, thelayer 1 of material emissive of radiation is produced by a surface treatment of the upper surface of the processing means layer 2. The one or more materials used to produce thelayer 1 of material emissive of radiation are chosen so as to optimize the emission of radiation ER at a certain wavelength that allows thermal energy to be exchanged with space through the Earth's atmosphere, once theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention has been installed on a portion of the Earth's surface. The wavelength of the radiation ER enabling such heat exchange is in the wavelengths of the infrared, in particular and preferably between 8 and 16 μm. This makes it possible to optimize the heat exchange that occurs naturally between two bodies having two surfaces facing each other and the temperatures of which are different. Specifically, a radiative heat exchange thus takes place and is dependent on the difference in thepower 4 of the temperatures of the two facing bodies. Thelayer 1 of material emissive of radiation may be produced using a lacquer or a laminated plastic film, or even be made of glass. Thus, it is possible to obtain a radiative heat exchange of about 50 W/m2. - Furthermore, the
element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention comprises a layer 3 forming a heat exchanger. This layer 3 forming a heat exchanger is positioned on a lower surface of the processing means layer 2, which lower surface is opposite the upper surface of the processing means layer 2 that receives thelayer 1 of material emissive of radiation. This layer 3 forming a heat exchanger here comprises a network ofducts 5 winding under and making thermal contact with the lower surface of the processing means layer 2 of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. The network ofducts 5 forms a single circuit and comprises aninlet 7 and anoutlet 6 in order to allow a heat-transfer fluid to be made to flow within the network ofducts 5 forming the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger. The network ofducts 5 may be embedded in a material promoting heat exchange between the lower surface of the processing means layer 2 and the network ofducts 5 in which the heat-transfer fluid flows between theinlet 7 and theoutlet 6. - Lastly, the
element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention comprises an insulatinglower layer 4 positioned below the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger. This insulatinglower layer 4 makes it possible to minimize heat exchange between the ground above which theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention is installed and saidelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. In addition, this insulatinglower layer 4 makes it possible to promote and protect heat exchange between the processing means layer 2 and the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger. - In use, the
element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention allows heat to be exchanged without the consumption of water being necessary. Heat is exchanged, using the emission of radiation ER, with space. Furthermore, heat is naturally transferred by convection between the upper surface of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention and the atmosphere. Lastly, heat exchange occurs with the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger. - During the day, the
element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention will make it possible to maintain an optimal operating temperature for the means for processing solar radiation that form the layer 2 of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. In the context of a use in a CSP plant, the network ofducts 5 of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention is fluidically connected to a heat exchanger of a condenser of the CSP plant and thus it is possible for the production of heat referred to as low-temperature-level waste heat to be evacuated via this condenser. - During the night, the structure of the
element 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention will allow the temperature of the upper surface of thelayer 1 of material emissive of radiation of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to be decreased below the dew point temperature. This will make it possible to condense, on this upper surface of thelayer 1 of material emissive of radiation of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, moisture contained in the ambient air. The water thus formed on the surface will allow this surface to be cleaned naturally. In addition, if a large amount of water is thus produced by condensation, the surplus is collected for subsequent use. This production of water is about 200 to 1000 liters for every 500 m2 of area ofelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. - With reference to
FIG. 2 , we will now describe a solar tracker according to the invention employing anelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. Thesolar tracker 20 according to the invention is here a parabolic solar tracker comprising twoelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, which are preferably curved in order to form a parabola. Thelayer 1 of material emissive of radiation of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention is located on the interior of the parabola formed by theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, whereas the insulatinglower layer 4 is positioned on the exterior of thesolar tracker 20 according to the invention. Thus, since the processing means layer 2 here forms a mirror, solar radiation is reflected by theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention toward a focal point of the parabola formed by thiselement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. The focal point is occupied by atubular furnace 21 in which flows a heat-transfer fluid that collects the solar energy thus reflected by theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention of thesolar tracker 20 according to the invention. The twoelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, forming thesolar tracker 20 according to the invention, are positioned side-by-side so as to form a basin and are separated, at a low point, by apassage 23. Under thispassage 23, thesolar tracker 20 according to the invention comprises means for collecting tricklingwater 22, here taking the form of a drain pipe. Thus, as indicated above, overnight the condensation that forms on the exterior surface of thelayer 1 of material emissive of radiation of the twoelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention trickles toward the low point, and therefore toward thepassage 23, then flows naturally into thedrain pipe 22 that allows excess trickling water to be collected by a device for putting this water to use. In addition, as it trickles, this water cleans theelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. - Now, with reference to
FIG. 3 , we will describe a second embodiment of a solar tracker according to the invention comprising anelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. Thesolar tracker 30 according to this second embodiment of the invention is here a flat solar tracker comprising anelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention installed on astructure 31 itself pivotably mounted on aconstruction 32, for example taking the form of a pole, allowing thesolar tracker 30 according to the invention to be installed on a ground portion S of a site. Again, on at least one edge, thesolar tracker 30 comprises means for collecting tricklingwater 22, here again taking the form of a drain pipe. Operation overnight is identical here as for thesolar tracker 20 according to the invention of the first embodiment described above. In order to ensure the water trickles, thetracker 30 according to the invention may allow theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, which here forms a plane, to be inclined by an amount that enables this trickling to be achieved. - In the case of the
solar tracker 20 according to the first embodiment and of thesolar tracker 30 according to the second embodiment, the orientation of the elements for processing solar radiation according to the invention is achieved, in a way known per se, by a system for controlling an orientation of the structure (not shown), which allows the structure of the solar tracker and therefore theelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to be oriented so that the radiation emitted by the sun during the day strikes theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention at an optimal angle. This control is carried out during daylight hours. However, in order to optimize operation overnight, the system for controlling an orientation of the structure is used to orient consequently theelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention in order to optimize heat exchange, on the one hand, and above all, on the other hand, to optimize the production of water. To do this, the system for controlling an orientation of the structure orients theelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention depending on the meteorological conditions in the vicinity of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, in particular depending on wind strength/direction as wind has a tendency to dry the water obtained by the condensation. Furthermore, the system for controlling an orientation of the structure allows, at regular intervals overnight, the inclination of theelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to be abruptly changed for a short period of time so as to cause the water condensed on the surface of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention to trickle and to ensure that this water trickles toward themeans 22 for collecting trickling water, which means are installed on the solar trackers controlled by the system for controlling an orientation of the structure. - With reference to
FIG. 4 , we will now describe an arrangement of two solar trackers according to the invention equipped withelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. Each of thesolar trackers 30 according to the invention here comprises, within itsconstruction 32, a geothermal exchanger buried in the ground S on which thesolar trackers 30 according to the invention are installed. This heat exchanger is optional in the arrangement of two solar trackers according to the invention. Here, the geothermal exchanger is produced using feet of theconstruction 32 which take the form of twocoaxial tubes tubes construction 32, said portion being buried in the ground S. Thus, when thesolar tracker 30 according to the invention is put in place on the ground portion S, thefluid outlet 6 of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention is connected to aninlet 321 of theinterior tube 323 whereas anoutlet 322 of theexternal tube 324 is connected to theinlet 7 of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. Thus, the heat-transfer fluid flowing in the network ofducts 5 of the layer 3 forming a heat exchanger, after having absorbed heat from theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention, especially if it is a question of an element comprising photovoltaic cells, will flow through the geothermal exchanger in thetubes inlet 7 into theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. In the case illustrated inFIG. 4 , it is possible to connect the various solar trackers of a solar field to one another. To do this, theinlet 7 of the firstsolar tracker 30 according to the invention is connected to asupply duct 40 for example originating from another solar tracker. Theoutlet 6 of the firstsolar tracker 30 according to the invention is connected to theinlet 321 of the geothermal exchanger of this firstsolar tracker 30 according to the invention. Theoutlet 322 of the geothermal exchanger of the firstsolar tracker 30 according to the invention is connected to the inlet of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention of thesecond tracker 30 according to the invention using aduct 42. Next, theoutlet 6 of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention of the secondsolar tracker 30 according to the invention is connected to theduct 43 at the inlet of the thermal exchanger of the secondsolar tracker 30 according to the invention. The outlet of the heat exchanger of this secondsolar tracker 30 is connected to the following solar tracker using aduct 44 and so on. - In the situation where the
trackers 30 of the arrangement of solar trackers according to the invention do not comprise geothermal exchangers, theoutlet 6 of the firstsolar tracker 30 is directly connected to theinlet 7 of the secondsolar tracker 30. - The above description with regard to a
solar tracker 30 according to the invention is applicable in an identical way to an array ofsolar trackers 20 according to the invention. - With reference to
FIG. 5 , we will now describe the connection of anexchanger 100 of a condenser of a CSP type condensation solar power plant comprising a solarfield including elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention installed on solar trackers of the solar field of the CSP plant. Thevarious elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention of the solar field are connected to one another as described above with reference toFIG. 3 . Except that theoutlet 6 of the heat exchanger of the lastsolar tracker 30 according to the invention is connected to an inlet of theexchanger 100 of the condenser of the CSP plant via theduct 44 whereas an outlet of theexchanger 102 of the condenser of the CSP plant is fluidically connected by theduct 40 to theinlet 7 of the firstsolar tracker 30 of the solar field. A three-way valve 101 is installed at the inlet of theexchanger 100 of the condenser of the CSP plant an outlet of which is connected using aduct 103 to the outlet of a second three-way valve 102 installed at the outlet of the exchanger of the condenser of the CSP plant. The use of these three-way valves duct 103 makes it possible to prevent, if required, the heat-transfer fluid from passing through theexchanger 100, which is useful during overnight operation when the condenser of the CSP plant is not in operation. -
FIG. 6 illustrates, schematically, a CSP type condensation solar power plant equipped with a plurality ofelements 10 for processing solar radiation, namely two in the example shown, each formed from a mirror that concentrates solar radiation on atubular collector 105. These collectors are mounted in series and passed through by the heat-transfer fluid that forms the heat source of theevaporator exchanger 107 of the plant. This heat-transfer fluid is heated by absorption of the solar radiation reflected by theelements 10 for processing solar radiation. Apump 107 pumps the heated fluid into theevaporator exchanger 107 of the plant. In theevaporator exchanger 107, the heat-transfer fluid heated by theelements 10 serves to produce steam. This pressurized steam drives theelectricity generating turbine 111 of the plant. The low-pressure steam output from theturbine 111 is then condensed by way of thecondenser exchanger 100. The working fluid is made to flow by apump 115 that increases the pressure of the fluid in this closed circuit. According to the invention, it is the fluid flowing under the effect of apump 117 through the heat exchangers of theelements 10 for processing solar radiation that serves as a cold source in theheat exchanger 100. The heat absorbed during the condensation is transferred to the exterior by theelements 10 for processing solar radiation, on the one hand by convection, and on the other hand by radiation by virtue of the layer of emissive materials, which especially emit infrared radiation. - It should be noted that the cooling circuit formed by the heat exchangers of the trackers may also comprise supporting constructions taking the form of poles, in accordance with
FIG. 5 . - Thus, in the context of a CSP plant, the use of
elements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention on solar trackers forming the solar field of the CSP plant allows said solar field of the CSP plant to be used as a macro heat exchanger by associating the convective and radiative transfer described above. Thus, a considerable area of exchange is made available, about 10,000 to 13,000 square meters per MWhe, enabling the heat of condensation issued from theexchanger 100 of the condenser of the plant to be extracted, but also the thermodynamic cycle implemented by the CSP plant thus equipped to be under-cooled and the efficiency thereof thus to be improved. The solar field is thus exploited not only during the day but also during the night and its relative investment cost is therefore decreased by crossover. The invention such as described above allows the need to evacuate heat to be met without any water consumption and simultaneously allows the performance of the thermodynamic cycles implemented by the CSP plant thus equipped to be improved. On the whole, the water consumption of the CSP plant thus equipped is thus decreased by more than about 90%. Because there is no need for any water tower to cool the thermodynamic cycle. Furthermore, the use of the surfaces of theelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention equipping the solar field as radioactive exchange surfaces overnight also allows ambient moisture to be condensed from the surrounding air. Thus, the condensates formed flow gravitationally into themeans 22 for collecting trickling water equipping the various solar trackers of the solar field, cleaning the upper surface of theelements 10 for processing solar radiation according to the invention. The water thus produced is collected by themeans 22 for collecting trickling water and then easily put to use. The solar field is then no longer the origin of water consumption but an actual producer of this usable water and the elements for processing solar radiation are therefore cleaned without any need for human intervention. - Of course, it is possible to make many modifications to the invention without however departing from the scope thereof.
- In particular:
-
- the
layer 1 emissive of radiation may be arranged on a back side of theelement 10 for processing solar radiation. In this case, theelement 10 for processing solar radiation does not comprise an insulatinglower layer 4 since the latter is replaced by the layer emissive of radiation. When this variant embodiment of the element for processing solar radiation is used in a solar tracker, radiation ER is emitted when the system for controlling the solar tracker flips said solar tracker so as to position the back side of the element for processing solar radiation, and therefore the layer emissive of radiation then arranged on this back side, facing space; and - in the context of a linear Fresnel solar tracker, the network of
ducts 5 of the layer forming a heat exchanger is arranged in an axle bearing the element for processing solar radiation, generally comprising a mirror.
- the
Claims (14)
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
FR1262017 | 2012-12-13 | ||
FR1262017A FR2999830B1 (en) | 2012-12-13 | 2012-12-13 | ELEMENT FOR THE TREATMENT OF IMPROVED SOLAR RADIATION AND A SOLAR FOLLOWER AND A SOLAR POWER PLANT EQUIPPED WITH SUCH ELEMENT |
PCT/FR2013/053074 WO2014091172A2 (en) | 2012-12-13 | 2013-12-13 | Improved element for processing solar radiation, and a sun tracker and a solar farm equipped with such an element |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20150308717A1 true US20150308717A1 (en) | 2015-10-29 |
Family
ID=47741143
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/651,090 Abandoned US20150308717A1 (en) | 2012-12-13 | 2013-12-13 | Improved Element for Processing Solar Radiation, and a Sun Tracker and a Solar Farm Equipped with Such an Element |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20150308717A1 (en) |
FR (1) | FR2999830B1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2014091172A2 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9705448B2 (en) * | 2015-08-11 | 2017-07-11 | James T. Ganley | Dual-use solar energy conversion system |
WO2021154919A1 (en) * | 2020-01-29 | 2021-08-05 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Utilization of solar systems to harvest atmospheric moisture for various applications including panel cleaning |
US11125514B2 (en) | 2018-04-04 | 2021-09-21 | The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York | Systems and methods for passive cooling and radiator for same |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9973141B2 (en) | 2015-01-15 | 2018-05-15 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Solar system comprising self sustainable condensation, water collection, and cleaning subassemblies |
Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4062489A (en) * | 1976-04-21 | 1977-12-13 | Henderson Roland A | Solar-geothermal heat system |
US4122831A (en) * | 1976-04-28 | 1978-10-31 | U.S. Philips Corporation | Solar collector comprising an elongate absorber in an evacuated transparent tube |
US4356815A (en) * | 1980-08-19 | 1982-11-02 | Owens-Illinois, Inc. | Solar energy collector having an absorber element of coated foil |
US4794909A (en) * | 1987-04-16 | 1989-01-03 | Eiden Glenn E | Solar tracking control system |
US5431149A (en) * | 1992-07-31 | 1995-07-11 | Fossum; Michaele J. | Solar energy collector |
US5575276A (en) * | 1992-07-31 | 1996-11-19 | Fossum; Richard L. | Solar thermal water heating system |
US7296410B2 (en) * | 2003-12-10 | 2007-11-20 | United Technologies Corporation | Solar power system and method for power generation |
US20090090488A1 (en) * | 2007-10-05 | 2009-04-09 | Mcnnnac Energy Services Inc. | Night sky cooling system |
US20110120452A1 (en) * | 2009-11-20 | 2011-05-26 | Miles Mark W | Solar flux conversion module |
US20110253129A1 (en) * | 2010-04-16 | 2011-10-20 | Kerry Gordon Daly | Apparatus for Conditioning Space Under Solar Collectors and Arrays Thereof |
Family Cites Families (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4081966A (en) * | 1977-03-03 | 1978-04-04 | Degeus Arie M | Solar operated closed system power generator |
DE2852654C2 (en) * | 1978-12-06 | 1983-12-22 | Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm GmbH, 8012 Ottobrunn | Tower reflector for concentrating solar power plants |
US5047654A (en) * | 1990-02-05 | 1991-09-10 | Edwin Newman | Solar powered electricity mine system |
DE9004423U1 (en) * | 1990-04-18 | 1990-06-21 | Baumjohann, Adolf, 86179 Augsburg | Water coolers and water collectors |
JP2716861B2 (en) * | 1990-10-01 | 1998-02-18 | 三菱重工業株式会社 | Thermoelectric converter |
US5660644A (en) * | 1995-06-19 | 1997-08-26 | Rockwell International Corporation | Photovoltaic concentrator system |
US20060162762A1 (en) * | 2005-01-26 | 2006-07-27 | Boris Gilman | Self-cooled photo-voltaic device and method for intensification of cooling thereof |
DE102005054366A1 (en) * | 2005-11-15 | 2007-05-16 | Durlum Leuchten | Solar collector with heat engine |
US20090158736A1 (en) * | 2006-03-15 | 2009-06-25 | Solar Heat And Power Pty Ltd | Thermal power plant incorporating subterranean cooling of condenser coolant |
ITMI20071335A1 (en) * | 2007-07-05 | 2009-01-06 | Federico Pirovano | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED EFFICIENCY AND METHOD OF INCREASING THE PRODUCTION OF ELECTRIC ENERGY OF AT LEAST ONE THERMO-PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR MODULE. |
EP2101119A1 (en) * | 2008-03-11 | 2009-09-16 | Helianthos B.V. | Roof element |
WO2010149177A2 (en) * | 2009-06-26 | 2010-12-29 | Samak Nabil Mahmoud Talat Wahba | Solar heat collector and heat focuser to melt sand/metal/salt or to produce methanol and to generate simultaneously electricity by the cooling methods anergy circuits |
US8975505B2 (en) * | 2009-09-28 | 2015-03-10 | Daniel Ray Ladner | Concentrated solar thermoelectric power system and numerical design model |
-
2012
- 2012-12-13 FR FR1262017A patent/FR2999830B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2013
- 2013-12-13 US US14/651,090 patent/US20150308717A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2013-12-13 WO PCT/FR2013/053074 patent/WO2014091172A2/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4062489A (en) * | 1976-04-21 | 1977-12-13 | Henderson Roland A | Solar-geothermal heat system |
US4122831A (en) * | 1976-04-28 | 1978-10-31 | U.S. Philips Corporation | Solar collector comprising an elongate absorber in an evacuated transparent tube |
US4356815A (en) * | 1980-08-19 | 1982-11-02 | Owens-Illinois, Inc. | Solar energy collector having an absorber element of coated foil |
US4794909A (en) * | 1987-04-16 | 1989-01-03 | Eiden Glenn E | Solar tracking control system |
US5431149A (en) * | 1992-07-31 | 1995-07-11 | Fossum; Michaele J. | Solar energy collector |
US5575276A (en) * | 1992-07-31 | 1996-11-19 | Fossum; Richard L. | Solar thermal water heating system |
US7296410B2 (en) * | 2003-12-10 | 2007-11-20 | United Technologies Corporation | Solar power system and method for power generation |
US20090090488A1 (en) * | 2007-10-05 | 2009-04-09 | Mcnnnac Energy Services Inc. | Night sky cooling system |
US20110120452A1 (en) * | 2009-11-20 | 2011-05-26 | Miles Mark W | Solar flux conversion module |
US20110253129A1 (en) * | 2010-04-16 | 2011-10-20 | Kerry Gordon Daly | Apparatus for Conditioning Space Under Solar Collectors and Arrays Thereof |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9705448B2 (en) * | 2015-08-11 | 2017-07-11 | James T. Ganley | Dual-use solar energy conversion system |
US11125514B2 (en) | 2018-04-04 | 2021-09-21 | The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York | Systems and methods for passive cooling and radiator for same |
WO2021154919A1 (en) * | 2020-01-29 | 2021-08-05 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Utilization of solar systems to harvest atmospheric moisture for various applications including panel cleaning |
US11303244B2 (en) | 2020-01-29 | 2022-04-12 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Utilization of solar systems to harvest atmospheric moisture for various applications including panel cleaning |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
FR2999830A1 (en) | 2014-06-20 |
WO2014091172A2 (en) | 2014-06-19 |
WO2014091172A3 (en) | 2014-08-14 |
FR2999830B1 (en) | 2019-06-28 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6080927A (en) | Solar concentrator for heat and electricity | |
US20080131830A1 (en) | Use of renewable energy like solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, and hydropower for manufacturing combustion air for a fossil fuel burner and firebox | |
KR101030458B1 (en) | Hybrid renewable energy system with solar geo-storage | |
JP2018509892A (en) | Environmentally friendly indoor cultivation | |
CN1350627A (en) | Solar power generation and energy storage system | |
KR101979659B1 (en) | Building Integrated Photovoltaic and Thermal system | |
Poullikkas et al. | A comparative overview of wet and dry cooling systems for Rankine cycle based CSP plants | |
US10030913B1 (en) | Heat pipe dry cooling system | |
US20150308717A1 (en) | Improved Element for Processing Solar Radiation, and a Sun Tracker and a Solar Farm Equipped with Such an Element | |
US20200036324A1 (en) | Methods of Producing Multiple Output Solar and Water Generator and Radiant Heater | |
KR100968751B1 (en) | Solar power generation system and air-conditioning system using it | |
US8851066B1 (en) | Thermal energy storage system | |
US20110219801A1 (en) | Solar powered compressor/pump combination | |
WO2013131470A1 (en) | Ground source cooling apparatus for solar energy electricity generating system | |
ES2350991B1 (en) | SOLAR CONCENTRATION PLANT TOWER TECHNOLOGY WITH NATURAL SHOT. | |
FI125078B (en) | Method and arrangement for using a low energy source to control the air temperature in the operating space | |
Sharon | A detailed review on sole and hybrid solar chimney based sustainable ventilation, power generation, and potable water production systems | |
Jesko | Classification of solar collectors | |
Kilkis | Lessons learned from labyrinth type of air preconditioning in exergy-aware solar greenhouses | |
KR101628668B1 (en) | Apparatus for controlling temperature of photovoltaic panel | |
RU2377473C2 (en) | Solar aero-pressure thermal power station | |
US20120132403A1 (en) | Method for the natural-draught cooling of a solar concentration plant | |
CN105299962A (en) | Micro-fine-channel solar heat collecting evaporator based on bionics design | |
GB1605037A (en) | Recovery of energy from wind | |
KR102199996B1 (en) | Combined heating and air-conditioning heater system using the organic photovoltaics and heat pipe |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE, FRAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:ROCHIER, DOMINIQUE;GOETZ, VINCENT;PY, XAVIER;AND OTHERS;SIGNING DATES FROM 20150602 TO 20150612;REEL/FRAME:046632/0464 Owner name: EXOSUN, FRANCE Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:ROCHIER, DOMINIQUE;GOETZ, VINCENT;PY, XAVIER;AND OTHERS;SIGNING DATES FROM 20150602 TO 20150612;REEL/FRAME:046632/0464 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
STCV | Information on status: appeal procedure |
Free format text: NOTICE OF APPEAL FILED |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |