Estimation of Outlet Mass Flow for a Mono-tube Cavity Receiver for Direct Steam Generation

This paper presents recent developments on a dynamic model for a mono-tube cavity receiver for direct steam generation with large scale parabolic dishes. Simulations of the model show that it is possible to assume a homogeneous distribution of heat flux along the receiver pipe without loosing accuracy in the calculation of receiver outlet temperature. The model in its current state produces an estimation of mass flow at the outlet for transient changes in incoming energy and receiver mass charge based on measurements of outlet pressure and modelled fluid properties. Simulations show that this approach produces good agreement between simulated and measured receiver outlet temperatures, but it is not currently possible to model pressure fluctuations in the receiver tube. Experimental data form the SG4 500 m2 dish at the ANU is used to simulate the receiver and validate the results of the model.