Second generation linear focus sun simulator to test optical performance of parabolic trough receivers - OptiRec

This paper presents results from a characterization of DLR’s second generation sun simulator test facility (OptiRec) for determining the optical performance of parabolic trough receivers. The configuration of the test bench is an elliptical mirror trough with flat end mirrors. Solar simulator lamps are situated in one focal line, the receiver in the other focal line. Water at ambient temperature flows through the receiver and allows for a calorimetric measurement of the absorbed power. Compared to the first generation test bench (ElliRec) the mirror material is changed from aluminum to glass, the ellipse size is changed and the handling is improved. Based on 34 measurements of the absorbed power the repeatability for OptiRec measurements is measured to 0.13% (1σ), compared to 0.2% in the ElliRec. Seven receivers from different manufacturers are measured in both test benches yielding consistent relative optical efficiency with <1.1% deviation. Particular differences are larger than the repeatability, which are attributed to differences in spectra and incidence angles between both test benches.