Modeling of the Turbulent Heat and Mass Transfer in the Receiver Systems of the Solar Parabolic Trough Modules

Abstract

Numerical modeling of the flow dynamics and heat exchange in the tube receiver of a solar parabolic trough module (PTM) has been performed. The study is based on a dimensionless mathematical model that describes turbulent conduction of heat and momentum. An analysis has been carried out and a turbulence model has been selected. The proposed model describes the features of heat exchange near the wall most accurately. A numerical algorithm and Fortran program have been developed on the basis of the mathematical model. The major geometric, dynamic, and energy parameters of the PTM receiving system have been determined. The results can be useful in designing solar energy systems with parabolic trough concentrators (PTC) of different power and purpose.