Thermoeconomic Optimization of a Solar Chimney Power Plant

2008 ◽  
Vol 130 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Johannes P. Pretorius ◽  
Detlev G. Kröger

No physical optimum solar chimney power plant exists when only regarding the dimensions of such a plant. However, if construction costs are introduced, thermoeconomically optimal plant configurations may be established. This paper investigates the thermoeconomic optimization of a large-scale solar chimney power plant. Initially, relevant dimensions are selected, which are to be optimized. An approximated cost model is then developed, giving the capacity for finding optimum plant dimensions for different cost structures. Multiple computer simulations are performed and results are compared to the approximated cost of each specific plant. Thermoeconomically optimal plant configurations are obtained.

2000 ◽  
Vol 122 (3) ◽  
pp. 133-137 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anthony J. Gannon ◽  
Theodor W. von Backstro¨m

An ideal air standard cycle analysis of the solar chimney power plant gives the limiting performance, ideal efficiencies and relationships between main variables. The present paper includes chimney friction, system, turbine and exit kinetic energy losses in the analysis. A simple model of the solar collector is used to include the coupling of the mass flow and temperature rise in the solar collector. The method is used to predict the performance and operating range of a large-scale plant. The solar chimney model is verified by comparing the simulation of a small-scale plant with experimental data. [S0199-6231(00)00503-7]


2006 ◽  
Vol 128 (3) ◽  
pp. 302-311 ◽  
Author(s):  
Johannes P. Pretorius ◽  
Detlev G. Kröger

This paper evaluates the performance of a large-scale solar chimney power plant. The study considers the performance of a particular reference plant under specified meteorological conditions at a reference location in South Africa. A computer simulation program is employed to solve the governing conservation and draught equations simultaneously. Newly developed convective heat transfer and momentum equations are included in the numerical model and multiple simulations are performed. Results indicate 24hr plant power production, while illustrating considerable daily and seasonal power output variations. It is shown that plant power production is a function of the collector roof shape and inlet height.


2006 ◽  
Vol 129 (2) ◽  
pp. 171-178 ◽  
Author(s):  
Johannes P. Pretorius ◽  
Detlev G. Kröger

This paper conducts a sensitivity analysis on the influence of the quality, thickness, reflectance, emissivity, shape, and insulation of the collector roof glass, the cross section of the collector roof supports, various ground types, ground surface roughness, absorptivity and emissivity, turbine inlet and bracing wheel loss coefficients, and the ambient pressure and lapse rate on the performance of a large-scale (reference) solar chimney power plant. Computer simulation results indicate that collector roof insulation, emissivity and reflectance, the ambient lapse rate, and ground absorptivity and emissivity all have a major effect on the power production of such a plant.


Author(s):  
Sellami Ali ◽  
Benlahcene Djaouida ◽  
Abdelmoumène Hakim Benmachiche ◽  
Zeroual Aouachria

Author(s):  
Sreelekha Arun

The energy consumption on global scale is continuously increasing, resulting in rapid use of energy resources available. Solar chimney power generation technology hence began to get growing attention as its basic model needs no depleting resources like fossil fuels for its functioning but only uses sunlight and air as a medium. It takes the advantage of the chimney effect and the temperature difference in the collector that produces negative pressure to cause the airflow in the system, converting solar energy into mechanical energy in order to drive the air turbine generator situated at the base of the chimney. Solar Chimney Power Plant (SCPP) brings together the solar thermal technology, thermal storage technology, chimney technology and air turbine power generation technology. However, studies have shown that even if the chimney is as high as 1000 m, the efficiency achievable is only around 3%. Hence, this review paper intents to put together the new technological advancement that aims to improve the efficiency of SCPP.


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