An analytical and experimental investigation of a 1. 8 by 3. 7 meter Fresnel lens solar concentrator
Line-focusing acrylic Fresnel lenses with application potential in the 200 to 370 C range are analytically and experimentally evaluated. Investigations previously conducted with a 56 cm wide lens were extended to experimentation/analyses with a 1.8 by 3.7 m lens. A measured peak concentration ratio of 64 with 90 percent of the transmitted energy focused into a 5.0 cm width was achieved. A peak concentration of 61 and a 90 percent target width of 4.5 cm were analytically computed. The experimental and analytical lens transmittance was 81 percent and 86 percent, respectively. Thus, the analytical/experimental lens performance correlation is considered good. The lens also was interfaced with a receiver assembly and operated in the collection mode. The collection efficiency ranged from 42 percent at 100 C to 26 percent at 300 C, whereas an efficiency of 40 percent at 300 C was anticipated. Apparently, the reflective cavity surrounding the absorber tube did not perform as expected.
- Research Organization:
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Huntsville, Ala. (USA). George C. Marshall Space Flight Center
- OSTI ID:
- 7284100
- Report Number(s):
- N-77-24582; NASA-TM-X-73392
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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