Topics in gradient maintenance and slat recycling in an operational solar pond

Journal Article · Sat Feb 01 00:00:00 EST 1992 · Journal of Solar Energy Engineering; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2929983· OSTI ID:5662908

Swift, A H.P.; Golding, P ^[1]

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1. Texas Univ., El Paso, TX (United States). Dept. of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering

Since 1986, the 3355 m{sup 2} salt gradient solar pond facility in El Paso, Texas, has operated with a temperature difference between the upper and lower zones of 55 to 75{degrees}C while delivering industrial process heat, grid-connected electrical power, and thermal energy for the experimental production of desalted water. Because the El Paso solar pond is an inland facility, it is necessary to recycle the salt in a sustainable salt management system. A method that uses the main pond surface for initial brine concentration and short-term storage was developed after it became evident that the original evaporation pond system was undersized. This paper examines the method for brine concentration and storage, the effects of a brine storage zone on pond operation, and the installation of an enhanced evaporation net system and an automatic scanning injection system. A short description of the performance history and current status of the project is also included.

• OSTI ID: 5662908
• Journal Information: Journal of Solar Energy Engineering; (United States), Vol. 114:1; ISSN 0199-6231
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
SOLAR PONDS
DESALINATION
BRINES
CONCENTRATORS
EVAPORATORS
HEAT
PERFORMANCE
SOLAR PROCESS HEAT
STORAGE
TEXAS
DEMINERALIZATION
DEVELOPED COUNTRIES
ENERGY
EQUIPMENT
FEDERAL REGION VI
NORTH AMERICA
PONDS
PROCESS HEAT
SEPARATION PROCESSES
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SURFACE WATERS
USA
141000* - Solar Collectors & Concentrators