Fluid-structure interaction analysis of a lightweight sandwich composite structure for solar central receiver heliostats

Central tower concentrating solar power systems are moving to the forefront become technology of choice for generating renewable electricity, but their widespread implementation is limited by cost. Heliostats contribute almost 50% plant’s cost and thus most significant element in central systems. For both large small-area heliostats, drive elements demonstrate largest these While large-area heliostats (>100 m2) have proven offer best economy compared other sizes, they require high-torque drives due heavy steel-based support structure. Heliostat costs could be reduced decreasing structure’s weight, avoiding units reducing energy consumption. However, structure must able cope with aerodynamic loads imposed upon them during operation. Although honeycomb sandwich composites been widely used where high structural rigidity low weight desired, there an absence studies that rigorously investigated suitability as heliostat mirror. Here, a fluid-structure interaction study investigated, several loading conditions at various tilt wind incidence angles, aero-structural behavior characteristics The panel showed markedly different operational conditions. effect orientation on panel’s maximum deflection stresses became more pronounced velocity increased above 10 m/s, increasing angle magnitudes rates. supporting components torque tube had noticeable wind-shielding effect, causing changes experienced heliostat. worst condition was 30° flow 20 m/s 0° surface. maintained its integrity according relevant optical material failure standards.