Modelling and dynamic simulation of a parabolic trough power plant

摘要

Investigational dynamic simulations of an existing 50 MWei parabolic trough solar thermal power plant in Spain are carried out during clear days and slightly cloudy periods. This work is the first research, which presents a detail dynamic model of a parabolic trough power plant. Besides the thermal energy storage system and solar field, the developed model describes the heat transfer fluid and steam/water paths in detail. Advanced control circuits, including drum level, economiser water bypass, attemperator and steam bypass controllers are also included. The parabolic trough power plant is modelled using Advanced Process Simulation Software (APROS). The comparison between the simulation results and measured data is documented, showing a reliable prediction of the real behaviour of the investigated solar power plant. The validated model offers a possibility for accurate simulation of further operation processes of the real plant. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.