Calculation Model Using Finite-Difference Method for Energy Analysis in a Concentrating Solar Plant with Linear Fresnel Reflectors

In this paper the geometrical, optical and thermal study and simulation of a concentrator Linear Fresnel Reflector is carried out. Plant performances are analyzed through a mathematical calculation model that allows energy simulations to be made to estimate the productive effectiveness of the plant and to detect the temperature profiles of the various components subjected to concentrated solar radiation. The absorption system was modeled using a finite difference discretization method. The implementation and resolution of the system of equations obtained, allows the causes of thermal and optical losses to be evaluated and the different types of orientation (North-South or East-West) to be compared by quantifying the energy productivity in the various cases on different days of the year. The results derived from simulations show how the efficiency of the plant is influenced by some parameters that have been made to vary. In particular, the plant performance is strongly influenced by the index of emissivity of the selective coating that covers the absorber tube.