The thermal design and analysis of an integrated sodium boiler/receiver for solar energy conversion

This paper presents the results of the thermal design and analysis of an integrated sodium boiler receiver used for solar energy conversion. The receiver is a major element of a point focus distributed receiver (PFDR) solar thermal-electric system employing Stirling engines for power conversion. The results of the design/analysis study show that a high temperature cavity receiver, employing pool-boiling sodium, is an excellent choice for use in dish-Stirling PFDR systems. The concept is technically feasible at the present time, employing state-of-the-art materials and technology, and will be a cost-effective subsystem when put into production.