MDAC heliostat field array wind tunnel test data summmary report
A wind tunnel test of the MDAC heliostat configuration in a single heliostat, clustered heliostats and clustered heliostats with fence was performed. The tests were conducted at the Fluid Dynamics and Diffusion Laboratory of Colorado State University during February and March 1978. The purpose of the test was to experimentally evaluate the aerodynamic loadings associated with the air flow patterns within and over clusters of heliostats selected from both perimeter and interior locations of the field array. The heliostat model was scaled by a factor of 1:22, and cluster configurations ranged from 7 to 12 heliostats. The test was successful and data taken appears consistent in terms of peak load with previous data obtained by MDAC in the Douglas Aircraft Low Speed Tunnel. For single heliostat pitching moments peak at 30/sup 0/ elevation angle. For clustered heliostats this value is usually lower with no distinct peak evident. Effects of having an open, half-closed, or fully-closed heliostat center slot appear to be small. Pressure distributions on heliostat surfaces (front and back) are relatively non-uniform, both on planar surfaces and the support post. A wind fence with 33% porosity provides significant reduction in the aerodynamic loads with pitching moments and drag forces reduced 50% to one order of magnitude.
- Research Organization:
- McDonnell Douglas Astronautics Co., Huntington Beach, CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC03-76ET20417
- OSTI ID:
- 6376698
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/ET/20417-T4
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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