On-sun first operation of a 150 kWth pilot solar receiver using dense particle suspension as heat transfer fluid

A 50-150 kWth pilot solar rig comprising the key equipments of a real plant and that uses silicon carbide Dense Particles Suspension as the heat transfer fluid has been tested at the 1 MW solar furnace at Odeillo-Font Romeu, France. The tests were carried out under large ranges of operating parameters and controlling the mass flow rate when higher temperature was required and when changes on DNI (direct normal irradiation) occurred. This paper presents experimental results on particle outlet temperature, dynamic response of the system to solid mass flow rate and solar power variations, and receiver thermal efficiency (η). Mean and maximum particles’ temperature up to 585°C and 720°C respectively was reached. The receiver thermal efficiency was measured in the range 50-90%.