Solar Stirling power generation - Systems analysis and preliminary testsThe feasibility of an electric power generation system utilizing a sun-tracking parabolic concentrator and a Stirling engine/linear alternator is being evaluated. Performance predictions and cost analysis of a proposed large distributed system are discussed. Design details and preliminary test results are presented for a 9.5 ft diameter parabolic dish at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (Caltech) Table Mountain Test Facility. Low temperature calorimetric measurements were conducted to evaluate the concentrator performance, and a helium flow system is being used to test the solar receiver at anticipated working fluid temperatures (up to 650 or 1200 C) to evaluate the receiver thermal performance. The receiver body is designed to adapt to a free-piston Stirling engine which powers a linear alternator assembly for direct electric power generation. During the next phase of the program, experiments with an engine and receiver integrated into the concentrator assembly are planned.
Document ID
19780027412
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Selcuk, M. K. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Wu, Y.-C. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Moynihan, P. I. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Day, F. D., III (California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena Calif., United States)