Analysis and optimization of a small scale solar organic rankine cycle system for power generation

Abstract

In this study, a numerical model of a small scale concentrated solar power system is designed for Istanbul conditions and the annual performance of the system is evaluated. As a collector system, a thermal model of parabolic trough collectors are modeled and the heat output of the collector system is compared with experimental data. For the power block, a steady state organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system is used. ORC system is composed of an evaporator, a condenser, a pump and an expander. For the working uid R245fa is chosen and whole system is modeled in MATLAB environment. Single tank thermocline storage model is implemented to observe the performance increase of the system with a proper thermal storage system. Using meteorological data, the annual performance of the designed system is estimated. Optimum values for mass ow rates, cycle pressures and required collector area is studied.