Francisco Ortegòn Gallego: On math. modeling & numerical approximation of parabolic trough collector

Abstract:
We describe the mathematical modeling of a parabolic trough collector (PTC). For a specific location and date, the direct solar radiation and other sun-earth parameters are computed on a Julian day basis. Also, we have used certain known and recent correlations for the heat transfer coefficients appearing in this model. The mathematical model is governed by three nonlinear partial differential equations of parabolic type with initial/boundary value conditions. We also describe a numerical algorithm in order to obtain the approximate solution of this model. Then, we carry out some numerical simulations which yield valuable information for the performance and efficiency of a solar PTC plant at a specific location.