A groundbreaking advancement in solar energy technology has emerged from research conducted by Wolfgang Grote-Ramm at Hochschule Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences. In a recent paper presented at the SolarPACES Conference Proceedings, Grote-Ramm and his team unveiled a two-component system designed to enhance the efficiency and longevity of molten salt solar power towers. This innovative approach combines model predictive control (MPC) with a service-life monitoring unit, potentially revolutionizing how solar power plants operate and maintain their infrastructure.
The control component utilizes a sophisticated MPC application that adapts to real-time conditions, allowing for flexible operational adjustments. This system operates on an industrial PC, employing a reduced-order dynamic model to manage the thermal and flow dynamics of the molten salt receivers. “Our model predictive control application is not just reactive; it anticipates changes and optimizes the system’s performance while adhering to strict process variable constraints,” Grote-Ramm explains. This capability is crucial for maximizing energy output and minimizing downtime, which are significant factors in the commercial viability of solar power projects.
Complementing the MPC is a service-life monitoring unit that assesses the wear and tear on absorber tubes based on thermal stresses and creep fatigue. By leveraging a detailed finite element analysis, the researchers developed a digital twin of the receiver, enabling real-time calculations of service-life consumption. This innovative monitoring solution is particularly vital in high-temperature environments, where materials are subjected to extreme conditions that can lead to premature failures. “With our real-time operational capabilities, we can significantly extend the lifespan of critical components, ultimately reducing maintenance costs and enhancing the reliability of solar power plants,” Grote-Ramm adds.
The implications of this research are profound for the energy sector, particularly as the world increasingly turns to renewable sources to combat climate change. By improving the efficiency and durability of solar power towers, this technology could lead to lower energy costs and more sustainable energy production. As solar energy continues to gain traction globally, innovations like these are essential for scaling up operations and making solar a competitive alternative to fossil fuels.
The system has already been implemented at a test facility in Jülich, Germany, where it awaits further field experiments to validate its performance in real-world conditions. The results from simulation studies, which were verified through a hardware-in-the-loop test bench, show promise, suggesting that this dual approach could set a new standard in solar power technology.
As the energy landscape evolves, the integration of advanced control systems and service-life monitoring will likely become a cornerstone of solar power tower operations, paving the way for a more resilient and efficient renewable energy infrastructure. The research by Grote-Ramm and his team not only highlights the potential of current technologies but also points toward a future where solar energy is more accessible and sustainable than ever before.
