Concentrated Solar Power, CSP. Development of critical parameters

Purpose and goal

The purpose of the project was to identify parameters of potential improvements for three different areas (Piston rod seals, Regenerator and Thermal Insulation). Activities and improvements have been presented and suggested in all three areas, which can be completed in a later project. Some resources was reallocated from the area of thermal insulation in favour of the piston rod seal, this because of the later identified extended work and strategic value of the piston rod seal.

Results and expected effects

Potential parameters for improvements have been identified in all project areas. 1. Piston rod seal: Identified problems and damages from hard particles on piston rod and seals. It is assumed to be possible to test new seals and materials in future rig tests. 2. Regenerator: Development and optimization of the regenerator should be done by creating approximate models, which is to be verified by test result. The model can then be adjusted with advanced computational simulations. 3. Thermal Insulation: To be further developed and improved in co-operation with suppliers.

Approach and implementation

Literature surveys were done for all different areas in the project. Material and microstructure analysis of the piston rod and seal was done to identify problem areas and possible improvements as well as FEM calculations of the seal. A test rig was also designed for piston rod seal materials and piston rod substrates. A simplified analytic concept study was done on the regenerator including calculation model and parameters for regenerator design.