Concentrating solar power device, system and method of use

Abstract

This disclosure relates to the field of solar heat exchange, specifically to a concentrating solar collector device, system, and method of use. The device includes a first medium tank, an inlet buffer tank, a heat-absorbing module, an outlet buffer tank, a second medium tank, and a pressurizing module. The first medium tank is connected to the inlet buffer tank via an upward pipe. The inlet buffer tank is connected to the heat-absorbing module via an inlet medium pipe. The heat-absorbing module is connected to the outlet buffer tank via an outlet medium pipe. The outlet buffer tank is connected to the second medium tank via a downward pipe. The upward pipe is connected to the downward pipe via a connecting pipe, and the downward pipe is connected to the first medium tank via a return pipe. The upward pipe is connected to the downward pipe via a first drain pipe, and the heat-absorbing module is connected to the first drain pipe via a second drain pipe. A first valve is installed on the first drain pipe. The pressurizing module is connected to both the inlet buffer tank and the outlet buffer tank. This device offers higher stability and safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of solar heat exchange technology, and more specifically, to a concentrating solar collector, system, and method of use. Background Technology

[0002] Concentrated solar thermal systems can be considered the core of solar tower power plants, therefore, high requirements are placed on the stability and safety of concentrated solar thermal systems.

[0003] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this disclosure is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a concentrating solar thermal collector, system and method of use with higher stability and safety.

[0005] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a concentrating solar thermal collector is provided, comprising a first medium tank, an inlet buffer tank, a heat absorption module, an outlet buffer tank, a second medium tank, and a pressurization module; The first medium tank is connected to the inlet buffer tank via an upward pipe. The inlet buffer tank is connected to the heat absorption module via an inlet medium pipe. The heat absorption module is connected to the outlet buffer tank via an outlet medium pipe. The outlet buffer tank is connected to the second medium tank via a downward pipe. The upward pipe is connected to the downward pipe via a connecting pipe. The downward pipe is connected to the first medium tank via a return pipe. The temperature of the medium stored in the first medium tank is lower than the temperature of the medium stored in the second medium tank. The upward pipe is connected to the downward pipe through a first drain pipe, and the heat absorption module is connected to the first drain pipe through a second drain pipe. A first valve is provided on the first drain pipe, and the connection between the second drain pipe and the first drain pipe is located between the first valve and the upward pipe. The first drain pipe, the connecting pipe, and the return pipe are arranged sequentially on the downward pipe in a direction away from the outlet buffer tank. The pressurizing module is connected to the inlet buffer tank and the outlet buffer tank. The pressurizing module is configured to pressurize the inlet buffer tank and the outlet buffer tank so that the medium in the inlet buffer tank is transferred to the heat absorption module under pressure, and the medium in the outlet buffer tank is transferred to the second medium tank under pressure.

[0006] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the pressurization module is connected to the inlet buffer tank via a first air passage, and the inlet buffer tank is connected to the outlet buffer tank via a second air passage.

[0007] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the concentrating solar collector further includes an overflow pipe; One end of the overflow pipe is connected to the upper end of the outlet buffer tank, and the other end is connected to the second medium tank.

[0008] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the concentrating solar collector further includes a drainage tank; The upward pipe is connected to the drainage tank through a first bypass pipe, and the downward pipe is connected to the drainage tank through a second bypass pipe.

[0009] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first medium tank is connected to a first heat exchange pipe, and the end of the first heat exchange pipe away from the first medium tank is used to connect to the first input terminal of the heat exchange module; the second medium tank is connected to a second heat exchange pipe, and the end of the second heat exchange pipe away from the second medium tank is used to connect to the second input terminal of the heat exchange module; the first input terminal and the second input terminal of the heat exchange module are internally connected.

[0010] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the heat-absorbing module includes at least two heat absorbers arranged in parallel; Each of the heat absorbers is connected at one end to the inlet medium pipe and at the other end to the outlet medium pipe.

[0011] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the pipes in the heat absorber are connected by a transition pipe; The transition pipe at the first end is connected to the inlet medium pipe through a second pipe, and the transition pipe at the second end is connected to the outlet buffer tank through the outlet medium pipe; The heat absorber also includes a first exhaust pipe; one end of the first exhaust pipe is connected to the outlet buffer tank, and the other end is connected to the second pipe and at least part of the transition pipe; At least a portion of the transition tube is connected to the first pore tube via the second pore tube.

[0012] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the concentrating solar collector further includes a discharge tank, and the upper end of the outlet buffer tank is connected to the discharge tank.

[0013] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a concentrating solar thermal collection system is provided, including a mirror field and the aforementioned concentrating solar thermal collection device; The mirror field is configured to provide solar energy to at least the heat-absorbing module of the concentrating solar collector through reflection.

[0014] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a method of using the above-described concentrating solar thermal system is provided, characterized in that it includes: The concentrating solar collector is controlled to preheat at a preheating temperature higher than the condensation temperature of the medium. The first medium tank, the upstream pipe, the first valve, the first drain pipe, the downstream pipe, the connecting pipe, the return pipe, and the outlet buffer tank are all kept in the open state. The first medium tank is controlled to output medium at a first upward flow rate, and the return pipe is controlled to return medium to the first medium tank at a first downward flow rate. After maintaining this state for a first preset time, the first medium tank is adjusted to output medium at a second upward flow rate, and the return pipe is adjusted to return medium to the first medium tank at a second downward flow rate. Wherein, the second upward flow rate is greater than the first upward flow rate; the second downward flow rate is not greater than the first downward flow rate, and the first downward flow rate is not less than the first upward flow rate, and the second downward flow rate is less than the second upward flow rate. After the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank rises, the inlet buffer tank is opened, and the first medium tank is controlled to output medium at a third upward flow rate. The medium enters the inlet buffer tank, pressurizing the inlet buffer tank until the pressure and liquid level in the inlet buffer tank reach the preset target, and the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank rises again; wherein, the third upward flow rate is greater than the second upward flow rate. Close the first valve, open the second drain pipe, and control the first medium tank to output medium at a fourth upward flow rate. After the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank rises again, open the second gas path. Under the control of the pressurization module, ensure that the liquid level and pressure in both the outlet buffer tank and the inlet buffer tank reach the preset target. Open the inlet medium pipe and the outlet medium pipe, and control the second drain pipe, the first drain pipe, the connecting pipe, and the return pipe to be in a closed state. Control the heat absorption module and the second medium tank to be in an open state to carry out the heat absorption process. The fourth upward flow rate is greater than the third upward flow rate.

[0015] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the principle of a concentrating solar collector in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the principle of a concentrating solar collector in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of step two in the method of using a concentrating solar thermal system according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of step four in the method of using a concentrating solar thermal system according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of step five in the method of using a concentrating solar thermal system according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the heat absorption process in the method of using a concentrating solar thermal system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the principle of a concentrating solar collector in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the principle of the drainage tank in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the principle of the first medium tank and the second medium tank in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the pressurization module in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the heat absorption module in one embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, they are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar structures, and therefore detailed descriptions of them will be omitted. Furthermore, the drawings are merely illustrative of this disclosure and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0029] Although relative terms such as "up" and "down" are used in this specification to describe the relative relationship of one component of an icon to another, these terms are used only for convenience, such as according to the orientation of the examples shown in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that if the device of the icon is flipped upside down, the component described as "up" will become the component described as "down." When a structure is "up" of another structure, it may mean that the structure is integrally formed on the other structure, or that the structure is "directly" mounted on the other structure, or that the structure is "indirectly" mounted on the other structure through another structure.

[0030] The terms “a,” “one,” “the,” and “” are used to indicate the existence of one element / component / etc.; the terms “include” and “have” are used to indicate an open-ended meaning of inclusion and that there may be other elements / components / etc. in addition to the listed elements / components / etc.; the terms “first,” “second,” etc. are used only as markers and are not a limitation on the number of objects.

[0031] Concentrated solar thermal systems can be considered the core of solar tower power plants, therefore, high requirements are placed on the stability and safety of concentrated solar thermal systems.

[0032] For this reason, see Figures 1-11 This disclosure provides a novel concentrated solar thermal system, which includes a concentrated solar thermal device and a mirror field (the mirror field includes multiple heliostats. For example, the number of heliostats is not less than 10,000 (of course, the number of heliostats can be determined according to the reflection efficiency of the mirror field), not shown in the mirror field diagram). The mirror field is configured to reflect sunlight to the concentrated solar thermal device, providing solar energy to the device; the concentrated solar thermal device can be connected to a heat exchange module 7 for heat exchange.

[0033] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 7 The concentrating solar collector includes a first medium tank 1, an inlet buffer tank 3, a heat-absorbing module 4, an outlet buffer tank 5, a second medium tank 2, and a pressurizing module 6. The first medium tank 1 stores a medium at a first temperature, and the second medium tank 2 stores a medium at a second temperature, which is higher than the first temperature. The mirror field is configured to reflect sunlight to the heat-absorbing module 4 of the concentrating solar collector, causing the medium flowing through the heat-absorbing module 4 to absorb heat and increase its temperature. The heat exchange module 7 is connected to the first medium tank 1 (which stores a low-temperature medium) and the second medium tank 2 (which stores a high-temperature medium), and is used for heat exchange using the medium. In this embodiment, the medium can be molten salt.

[0034] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1-7The medium outlet of the first medium tank 1 is connected to the medium inlet of the inlet buffer tank 3 via the upward pipe 8. The medium outlet of the inlet buffer tank 3 is connected to the medium inlet of the heat absorption module 4 via the inlet medium pipe 13. The medium outlet of the heat absorption module 4 is connected to the medium inlet of the outlet buffer tank 5 via the outlet medium pipe 14. The medium outlet of the outlet buffer tank 5 is connected to the medium inlet of the second medium tank 2 via the downward pipe 9. The pressurizing module 6 is connected to the inlet buffer tank 3 and is configured to pressurize the inlet buffer tank 3 so that the medium in the inlet buffer tank 3 is transferred to the heat absorption module 4 under pressure. The pressurizing module 6 is also connected to the outlet buffer tank 5 and is configured to pressurize the outlet buffer tank 5 so that the medium in the outlet buffer tank 5 is transferred to the second medium tank 2 under pressure.

[0035] In this disclosure, an inlet buffer tank 3 is provided between the first medium tank 1 and the heat absorption module 4. This allows the medium output from the first medium tank 1 (which is a high-pressure medium) to be temporarily stored in the inlet buffer tank 3. Then, the pressurization module 6 pressurizes the inlet buffer tank 3, using pressure to control the medium's entry into the heat absorption module 4. This avoids direct entry of the high-pressure medium into the heat absorption module 4, preventing damage and reducing the probability of damage. It also increases the service life of the heat absorption module 4, improves the stability and safety of the entire device, and ensures smooth operation and high efficiency of the entire system.

[0036] Similarly, this disclosure includes an outlet buffer tank 5 between the heat absorption module 4 and the second medium tank 2. This allows the medium output from the heat absorption module 4 to be temporarily stored in the outlet buffer tank 5. Then, the pressurization module 6 pressurizes the outlet buffer tank 5, using pressure to control the medium's entry into the second medium tank 2. This eliminates the need for a pump to transfer the medium into the second medium tank 2, reducing costs and preventing damage to the heat absorption module 4 and the second medium tank 2 caused by a pump, thus improving the device's lifespan, stability, and safety.

[0037] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1-6 ,as well as Figure 7 and Figure 10 The pressurization module 6 is connected to the outlet buffer tank 5 via the inlet buffer tank 3. Specifically, the pressurization module 6 is connected to the upper end of the inlet buffer tank 3 via the first air passage 17, and the upper end of the inlet buffer tank 3 is connected to the upper end of the outlet buffer tank 5 via the second air passage 15.

[0038] This disclosure sets the upper end of the inlet buffer tank 3 to be connected to the upper end of the outlet buffer tank 5, which can balance the pressure in the inlet buffer tank 3 and the pressure in the outlet buffer tank 5. This helps to balance the flow rate of the medium output from the inlet buffer tank 3 to the heat absorption module 4 (i.e., the flow rate of the medium output from the heat absorption module 4 to the outlet buffer tank 5) and the flow rate of the medium output from the outlet buffer tank 5 to the second medium tank 2, reducing the possibility of overflow in the outlet buffer tank 5 and improving the stability of the entire system operation.

[0039] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1-6 (in, Figures 1-6 The structure of the T4 / T1 / T9 / T7 valves in the text is for illustrative purposes only, indicating that valves are present here. Figure 9 and Figure 11 The upward pipe 8 is connected to the downward pipe 9 through the first drain pipe 11 (wherein the first drain pipe 11 is located near the inlet buffer tank 3), and the heat absorption module 4 is connected to the first drain pipe 11 through the second drain pipe 12. A first valve T1 is provided at one end of the first drain pipe 11 connected to the downward pipe 9 (the first valve T1 is used to connect or disconnect the first drain pipe 11 from the downward pipe 9). The second drain pipe 12 is located between the first valve T1 and the inlet buffer tank 3 (it can be understood that the opening and closing of the first valve T1 does not affect the connection between the second drain pipe 12 and the first drain pipe 11).

[0040] When there are faults in the inlet buffer tank 3, heat absorption module 4, outlet buffer tank 5, first medium tank 1 and second medium tank 2 that require repair or replacement, or when it is necessary to stop the operation of the system and export the remaining medium in the system (such as inlet buffer tank 3, heat absorption module 4, etc.), the medium in the corresponding structure can be exported through the first drainage pipe 11 and the second drainage pipe 12. This facilitates the repair of damaged equipment and improves maintenance efficiency.

[0041] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9The concentrating solar collector also includes a distribution tank 16. The upward pipe 8 is connected to the distribution tank 16 via a first bypass pipe 22, and the downward pipe 9 is connected to the distribution tank 16 via a second bypass pipe 23. The distribution tank 16 is connected to at least one of the first medium tank 1 and the second medium tank 2 (for example, the distribution tank 16 is connected to the first medium tank 1; another example, the distribution tank 16 is connected to the second medium tank 2; yet another example, the distribution tank 16 is connected to both the first medium tank 1 and the second medium tank 2). In this disclosure, the medium within each structure can be first discharged to the distribution tank 16, and then transported through the distribution tank 16 to at least one of the first medium tank 1 and the second medium tank 2. This not only protects the first medium tank 1 and the second medium tank 2 from damage caused by direct discharge, but also allows the medium flowing into the distribution tank 16 to re-enter the first medium tank 1 and the second medium tank 2, participating in the operation of the entire system, achieving medium reuse, and reducing costs.

[0042] In this example, the diversion tank 16 is connected to both the first medium tank 1 and the second medium tank 2. See also... Figure 8 The medium outlet of the drainage tank 16 is equipped with a salt-repellent pump 161, which is connected to both the first medium tank 1 and the second medium tank 2, and is used to transport the medium in the drainage tank 16 to the first medium tank 1 and the second medium tank 2.

[0043] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1-7 as well as Figure 9 The upward pipe 8 is connected to the downward pipe 9 via the connecting pipe 10. The downward pipe 9 is connected to one end of the second medium tank 2, and at the same time, the downward pipe 9 is connected to the first medium tank 1 via the return pipe 20. Among them, the first drain pipe 11, the connecting pipe 10, and the return pipe 20 are arranged sequentially on the downward pipe 9 in the direction away from the outlet buffer tank 5; it can be understood that the first drain pipe 11, the connecting pipe 10, and the return pipe 20 are arranged sequentially along the medium flow direction in the downward pipe 9, and the return pipe 20 is set close to the second medium tank 2.

[0044] When the inlet buffer tank 3, the heat absorption module 4, and other structures are filled with a medium, but the second drain pipe 12 and the first drain pipe 11 are empty, a significant pressure difference exists between the second drain pipe 12 / 11 and the inlet buffer tank 3, the heat absorption module 4, and other structures. If the medium in the inlet buffer tank 3, the heat absorption module 4, and other structures is directly discharged through the second drain pipe 12 / 11, the large pressure difference will cause damage to the inlet buffer tank 3, the heat absorption module 4, and other structures, as well as the second drain pipe 12 / 11. To mitigate risks, this disclosure includes a connecting pipe 10 and a return pipe 20, which pre-fill the first drain pipe 11 and the second drain pipe 12 with the medium. This results in a smaller pressure difference when draining the medium from structures such as the inlet buffer tank 3 and the heat absorption module 4, ensuring the stability and safety of the entire system. Furthermore, in the event of a malfunction in the heat absorption module 4, the connecting pipe 10 can drain the medium from structures such as the ascending pipe 8 to the first medium tank 1, preventing medium waste and ensuring the stability of the device.

[0045] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 9 The first medium tank 1 has a first tank body 101 and a first medium pump group 102 installed on the first tank body 101. The output end of the first medium pump group 102 forms the medium outlet of the first medium tank 1. The output end of the first medium pump group 102 is connected to the upward pipe 8. One end of the return pipe 20 is connected to the downward pipe 9, and the other end is connected to the first tank body 101. A seventh valve T7 is installed on the return pipe 20.

[0046] Optionally, the first media pump assembly 102 is configured to deliver the media within the first tank 101 to the uplink pipe 8. In one example, the first media pump assembly 102 includes one first media pump. In another example, the first media pump assembly 102 includes at least two first media pumps connected in parallel. For example, the first media pump assembly 102 includes three first media pumps connected in parallel, allowing one of the first media pumps to be connected to the system as an alternative, which can be used to replace the other first media pumps if they fail.

[0047] This example uses a first medium pump group 102 comprising three first medium pumps to illustrate the structure of the first medium pump group 102 in detail: See Figure 9 The first medium pump group 102 includes a first mixing pipe 1011, three first medium pumps 1021, and three first pipes 1013 arranged one-to-one with the three first medium pumps 1021.

[0048] The input end of each first medium pump 1021 is connected to the first tank 101, and the output end of each first medium pump 1021 is connected to one end of the corresponding first pipe 1013. The other end of each first pipe 1013 is connected to the first mixing pipe 1011, and the first mixing pipe 1011 is connected to the upward pipe 8, thereby forming a medium passage from the first tank 101 to the upward pipe 8. A second valve and a third valve are provided on the first pipe 1013. The second valve is located close to the first medium pump 1021 (in this example, the second valve is a regulating valve used to adjust the flow rate, and the third valve is a butterfly valve used to adjust and cut off the fluid medium).

[0049] In this example, the first medium pump 1021 is a variable frequency pump. The first medium pump 1021 has a pump exhaust valve, and a pump pressure gauge is installed at the pump exhaust valve of the first medium pump 1021.

[0050] In this example, the first medium pump set 102 also includes a second bypass pipe 26 and a third bypass pipe 27. One end of the second bypass pipe 26 is connected to the first mixing pipe 1011, and the other end is connected to the first tank 101. One end of the third bypass pipe 27 is connected to the first tank 101, and the other end is connected to each of the first pipelines 1013. In this disclosure, when the first medium pump set 102 malfunctions or needs to be replaced, the medium in the first mixing pipe 1011 can be discharged to the first medium tank 1 through the second bypass pipe 26, and the medium in the middle of the first pipeline 1013 can be discharged to the first medium tank 1 through the third bypass pipe 27. In this way, the medium in the first medium pump set 102 is emptied, which is convenient for the replacement or maintenance of the first medium pump set 102, and will not cause waste of the medium.

[0051] In one embodiment of this disclosure, corresponding valves may be provided on both the second bypass pipe 26 and the third bypass pipe 27 to control the opening and closing of the second bypass pipe 26 and the third bypass pipe 27 as well as the flow rate of the medium flowing through them.

[0052] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 11 A fourth valve T4 is installed at the medium inlet of the inlet buffer tank 3. The fourth valve T4 is located downstream of the first drain pipe 11 (it can be understood that closing the fourth valve T4 does not affect the connection between the first drain pipe 11 and the upstream pipe 8). The fourth valve T4 can be a butterfly valve.

[0053] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 and Figure 11 The heat-absorbing module 4 includes at least one heat absorber 401. In one example, the heat-absorbing module 4 includes at least two heat absorbers 401 arranged in parallel. For example, the heat-absorbing module 4 includes two heat absorbers 401 arranged in parallel. The mirror field is configured to provide solar energy to each heat absorber 401 by reflection.

[0054] Taking the heat absorption module 4, which includes two heat absorbers 401 connected in parallel, as an example, the heat absorption module 4 will be introduced as follows: See Figure 11 The heat absorption module 4 includes two heat absorbers 401 and two second pipes 28 corresponding to each heat absorber 401. One end of the inlet medium pipe 13 is connected to the medium outlet of the inlet buffer tank 3, and the other end is connected to each of the second pipes 28 (the second pipes 28 form the medium inlet of the heat absorber 401). In one example, there is one outlet medium pipe 14, and the medium outlet of each heat absorber 401 is connected to the outlet medium pipe 14. In another example, see... Figure 11 The number of outlet medium pipes 14 is the same as the number of absorbers 401, and they are set one-to-one. One end of the outlet medium pipe 14 is connected to the medium outlet of the absorber 401, and the other end is connected to the outlet buffer tank 5.

[0055] See Figure 11 The various pipes of the absorber 401 are connected sequentially via transition pipes 24. The absorber 401 also includes a first exhaust pipe 30, one end of which is connected to the outlet buffer tank 5, and the other end is connected to at least a portion of the transition pipes 24 and the second pipe 28. In this disclosure, the first exhaust pipe 30 is provided to discharge the gas inside the absorber 401 during the flow of the medium, avoiding affecting the flow of the medium in the entire device, thereby improving the working efficiency and heat exchange stability of the entire system and further enhancing the stability of the device. In addition, connecting the first exhaust pipe 30 to the outlet buffer tank 5 allows the gas discharged from the absorber 401 to pressurize the outlet buffer tank 5, reducing power consumption, and also allows the medium carried out during the exhaust process of the absorber 401 to be stored in the outlet buffer tank 5, avoiding environmental impact.

[0056] In this embodiment, the transition pipe 24 at the first end is connected to the inlet medium pipe 13 through the second pipe 28, and the transition pipe 24 at the second end is connected to the outlet buffer tank 5 through the outlet medium pipe 14.

[0057] See in this example. Figure 11 The heat absorber 401 has at least a portion of the transition pipe 24 connected to the aforementioned second drain pipe 12 (in other words, at least a portion of the transition pipe 24 is connected to the first drain pipe 11 through the second drain pipe 12). For example, the transition pipe 24 located at the first end of each pipe of the heat absorber 401 is connected to the first exhaust pipe 30, and the transition pipe 24 located at the second end of each pipe of the heat absorber 401 is connected to the second drain pipe 12. There can be multiple second drain pipes 12, and the end away from the transition pipe 24 is connected to the first drain pipe 11. A fifth valve T5 is provided on the second drain pipe 12.

[0058] In this disclosure, see Figure 11 A sixth valve T6 is provided on the side of the first drain pipe 11 that connects to the medium inlet of the inlet buffer tank 3. It can be understood that the sixth valve T6 at one end of the first drain pipe 11 controls the connection between the upstream pipe 8 and the first drain pipe 11 and the second drain pipe 12, while a first valve T1 at the other end of the first drain pipe 11 controls the connection between the downstream pipe 9 and the first drain pipe 11 and the second drain pipe 12. In this way, during the heat absorption process, the first drain pipe 11 and the second drain pipe 12 can be isolated from the upstream pipe 8 and the downstream pipe 9, preventing interference with the heat absorption process.

[0059] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 9 The second medium tank 2 includes a second tank body 201 and a receiving pipe 202 connected to the second tank body 201. One end of the downpipe 9 is connected to the outlet buffer tank 5, and the other end is connected to the receiving pipe 202.

[0060] In one embodiment of this disclosure, an eighth valve T8 (a regulating valve used to control the flow rate of the medium flowing through the downlink pipe 9) is provided on the downlink pipe 9. The uplink pipe 8 and the downlink pipe 9 are connected by a connecting pipe 10, on which a ninth valve T9 is provided. The connection point between the connecting pipe 10 and the downlink pipe 9 is closer to the outlet buffer tank 5 than the position of the eighth valve T8 on the downlink pipe 9, and the position of the connecting pipe 10 on the downlink pipe 9 is farther from the outlet buffer tank 5 than the connection point between the first drain pipe 11 and the downlink pipe 9. In this embodiment, the first bypass pipe 22 is located upstream of the connecting pipe 10 (relative to the flow direction of the medium in the uplink pipe 8), and the second bypass pipe 23 is located downstream of the eighth valve T8 (relative to the flow direction of the medium in the downlink pipe 9).

[0061] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 and Figure 10 The pressurization module 6 includes a gas storage tank 601, a gas compression assembly 602, a filter assembly 603, and a pressurized gas tank 604.

[0062] Optionally, the number of gas compression assemblies 602 can be one or more. Each gas compression assembly 602 includes a refrigerated dryer 6021 and an air compressor 6022 connected in sequence, with the output end of the air compressor 6022 connected to the inlet of the gas storage tank 601.

[0063] Optionally, the number of filter components 603 can be one or more. Each filter component 603 includes multiple filters connected in series (e.g., each filter component 603 includes three filters connected in series). The inlet of the filter at the first end of each filter component 603 is connected to the outlet of the gas storage tank 601, and the outlet of the filter at the second end of each filter component 603 is connected to the inlet of the pressurized gas tank 604. The outlet of the pressurized gas tank 604 is connected to one end of the first gas passage 17, and the other end of the first gas passage 17 is connected to the inlet buffer tank 3.

[0064] Optionally, the number of pressurized gas cylinders 604 can be one or more, with multiple pressurized gas cylinders 604 connected in parallel.

[0065] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 , Figure 9 as well as Figure 11 The concentrating solar collector also includes an overflow pipe 21, one end of which is connected to the upper end of the outlet buffer tank 5, and the other end is connected to the second medium tank 2. The overflow pipe 21 is provided in this disclosure so that when the medium in the outlet buffer tank 5 is at a high liquid level, it can flow into the second medium tank 2 through the overflow pipe 21, thus avoiding unsafe accidents caused by the high liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5.

[0066] In this embodiment, the heat exchange module 7 has a first input terminal and a second input terminal that are connected, and the first input terminal and the second input terminal are connected inside the heat exchange module 7.

[0067] See Figure 9 A second medium pump assembly 103 is also provided on the first tank 101. The input end of the second medium pump assembly 103 is connected to the first tank 101, and the output end of the second medium pump assembly 103 is connected to the first input end of the heat exchange module 7 via a first heat exchange pipe 18. In this embodiment, the second medium pump assembly 103 can have the same structure as the first medium pump assembly 102.

[0068] A third medium pump unit 203 is also provided on the second tank 201. The input end of the third medium pump unit 203 is connected to the second tank 201, and the output end of the third medium pump unit 203 is connected to the second input end of the heat exchange module 7 through the second heat exchange pipe 19. The third medium pump unit 203 can have the same structure as the second medium pump unit 103.

[0069] In this disclosure, both the first tank 101 and the second tank 201 are connected to the heat exchange module 7. When the temperature of the medium input into the heat exchange module 7 through the second tank 201 is high, the medium with a lower temperature in the first tank 101 can be injected into the heat exchange module 7, so that the high-temperature medium and the low-temperature medium are mixed, the temperature of the medium is adjusted, and the required medium temperature of the heat exchange module 7 is obtained.

[0070] In one embodiment of this disclosure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The concentrating solar collector also includes a discharge tank 35, with the upper end of the outlet buffer tank 5 connected to the discharge tank 35. When the liquid level of the medium in the outlet buffer tank 5 is high, the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 can also be controlled through the discharge tank 35. Of course, the discharge tank 35 can be connected to the second medium tank 2, so that the medium in the discharge tank 35 participates in heat exchange.

[0071] The concentrating solar collector and system proposed in this disclosure is a novel medium heat exchange system. The pressure module 6, outlet buffer tank 5 and inlet buffer tank 3 ensure the stability and safety of the entire system operation. In addition, the first drain pipe 11 and the second drain pipe 12 can realize the export of the medium in each component of the system, which is convenient for maintenance and replacement.

[0072] In one embodiment of this disclosure, there can be two eighth valves T8, which are connected in parallel on the downcomer pipe 9. This allows for quick switching to the other eighth valve T8 if one fails, ensuring the continuous and stable operation of the entire system. This concept can be applied to any valve in this disclosure.

[0073] Based on the above system, this disclosure also proposes a method for using the concentrating solar thermal collection system, including: Step 1: Control the concentrating solar collector to preheat under a preheating temperature higher than the condensation temperature of the medium (e.g., the preheating temperature can be set to 290°C). The purpose of this preheating is to prevent condensation when the medium is introduced into the concentrating solar collector. In this step, the mirror field can be adjusted to the "preheating" mode. In the preheating mode, the number of heliostats participating in the preheating mode is adjusted according to the preheating temperature. For example, when the number of heliostats is controlled to the first number, the tube screen temperature of the absorber 401 can reach the preheating temperature through the heliostats. Ambient temperature, wind speed, etc. will affect the tube screen temperature of the absorber 401. Therefore, the selection of the number of heliostats needs to take into account factors such as ambient temperature and wind speed.

[0074] Step 2: See Figure 3 ( Figure 3(The red marking indicates that it is closed), which controls the first medium tank 1, the upward pipe 8, the first drain pipe 11, the downward pipe 9, the connecting pipe 10, the return pipe 20, and the outlet buffer tank 5 to be in the open state; specifically, the first medium pump group 102 is started, and the first valve T1 and the sixth valve T6 on the first drain pipe 11, the eighth valve T8 on the downward pipe 9, the seventh valve T7 on the return pipe 20, and the ninth valve T9 on the connecting pipe 10 are opened, forming a circulation loop from the first medium tank 1 to the upward pipe 8, the first drain pipe 11, the downward pipe 9, the return pipe 20, and finally back to the first medium tank 1; Step 3: Control the first medium tank 1 to output medium at a first upward flow rate, and control the return pipe 20 to return medium to the first medium tank 1 at a first downward flow rate. After maintaining this state for a first preset time, adjust the first medium tank 1 to output medium at a second upward flow rate, and adjust the return pipe 20 to return medium to the first medium tank 1 at a second downward flow rate; wherein, the second upward flow rate is greater than the first upward flow rate; the second downward flow rate is not greater than the first downward flow rate, and the first downward flow rate is not less than the first upward flow rate, and the second downward flow rate is less than the second upward flow rate; Specifically, the first medium pump 1021 is controlled to operate at a first frequency, the second valve is controlled to be at a first opening degree, the third valve is controlled to be in the closed state, and the pump exhaust valve of the first medium pump 1021 is in the open state. After the pump pressure gauge at the outlet of the first medium pump 1021 shows pressure fluctuation, the pump exhaust valve is closed (this process is the exhaust process of the first medium pump 1021 to prevent the medium from carrying gas into the subsequent process and affecting the safety and stability of the system).

[0075] Open the third valve and control the second valve to the second opening degree (the second opening degree is greater than the first opening degree, and the second opening degree is less than the fully open opening degree), and keep the eighth valve T8 on the downflow pipe 9 and the seventh valve T7 on the return pipe 20 open (the seventh valve T7 and the eighth valve T8 can be in the fully open state), control the first medium tank 1 to output medium at the first upward flow rate, and control the return pipe 20 to return medium to the first medium tank 1 at the first downward flow rate; the system maintains the current state for a first preset time; wherein, the first downward flow rate is not less than the first upward flow rate; the first preset time can be set according to the actual situation, and its purpose is to enable the medium to quickly enter the upflow pipe and other structures.

[0076] Reduce the opening of the eighth valve T8 and control the first medium pump 1021 to operate at a second frequency (the second frequency is greater than the first frequency). Control the second valve to be fully open, so that the first medium tank 1 outputs medium at a second upward flow rate, and controls the return pipe 20 to return medium to the first medium tank 1 at a second downward flow rate (increase the medium flow rate of the first medium tank 1 and decrease the medium flow rate from the downward pipe 9 to the return pipe 20). Among these, the second upward flow rate is greater than the first upward flow rate; the second downward flow rate is less than the first downward flow rate, and the second downward flow rate is less than the second upward flow rate. In this way, the medium gradually accumulates in the downward pipe 9 and can eventually enter the outlet buffer tank 5. Step 4: After the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 begins to rise, refer to... Figure 4 The inlet buffer tank 3 is opened, and the first medium tank 1 is controlled to output medium at the third upward flow rate. The medium enters the inlet buffer tank 3 and pressurizes the inlet buffer tank 3 until the pressure and liquid level in the inlet buffer tank 3 reach the preset target, and the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 rises again; wherein, the third upward flow rate is greater than the second upward flow rate. Specifically: Once the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 rises (i.e., the medium enters the outlet buffer tank 5, indicating that the upstream pipe 8, downstream pipe 9, and first drain pipe 11 are full of medium), open the fourth valve T4 on the inlet buffer tank 3 to control the first medium tank 1 to output medium at a third upward flow rate (the frequency of the first medium pump 1021 can be further increased). At this higher medium flow rate, the medium will gradually enter the inlet buffer tank 3, and the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 will decrease (or the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 will remain unchanged). Start the pressurization module 6 and open the first gas passage 17 to pressurize the inlet buffer tank 3. Once the liquid level and pressure in the inlet buffer tank 3 reach the preset target, the medium will no longer flow into the inlet buffer tank 3, but will instead re-enter the outlet buffer tank 5, and the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 will rise again. Step 5: See Figure 5 Close the first valve T1, open the second drain pipe 12, control the first medium tank 1 to output the medium at the fourth upward flow rate, and after the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 rises again, open the second gas path 15. Under the control of the pressurization module 6, make the pressure and liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 and the inlet buffer tank 3 reach the preset target. Open the inlet medium pipe 13 and the outlet medium pipe 14, control the second drain pipe 12, the first drain pipe 11, the connecting pipe 10 and the return pipe 20 to be in the closed state, and control the heat absorption module 4 and the second medium tank 2 to be in the open state to carry out the heat absorption process; the fourth upward flow rate is greater than the third upward flow rate.

[0077] Specifically: After completing step 4 and the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 rises again, the control mirror field is adjusted to "salt inlet mode" (wherein, in salt inlet mode, the mirror field adjusts the number of heliostats participating in the salt inlet mode according to the salt inlet temperature of the absorber at this stage (e.g., the salt inlet temperature of the absorber tube screen is 320℃). For example, when the number of heliostats is controlled to be the second number, the tube screen temperature of the absorber 401 can be made to reach the salt inlet temperature through the heliostats. Ambient temperature, wind speed, etc. will affect the tube screen temperature of the absorber 401, so the selection of the number of heliostats needs to take into account factors such as ambient temperature and wind speed). The first valve T1 is closed, the first exhaust pipe 30 and the second drain pipe 12 of the absorber 401 are opened, and the first medium tank 1 is controlled to output the medium at the fourth upward flow rate. Under this condition, the medium is filled into the second drain pipe 12 (at this time, the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 may remain unchanged, or...). (It may drop), after the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank 5 rises again, open the second gas path 15, and under the control of the pressurization module 6, make the liquid level and pressure in the outlet buffer tank 5 and the inlet buffer tank 3 reach the preset target; open the inlet medium pipe 13 and the outlet medium pipe 14, close the second drain pipe 12, the first drain pipe 11, the connecting pipe 10 and the return pipe 20, and turn on the heat absorption module 4 and the second medium tank 2, and control the mirror field to switch from the "salt inlet" mode to the heating mode (the energy projected onto the heat absorber 401 can be gradually increased by automatic energy input adjustment, or it can be manually controlled to increase the energy projected onto the heat absorber 401 by a percentage, and control the heating rate of the surface temperature of the heat absorber 401 and the outlet salt temperature of the heat absorber 401 within the allowable range), and carry out the heat absorption process. The medium in the first medium tank 1 enters the heat absorption module 4 to absorb heat and is stored in the second medium tank 2. In this heating mode, the number of heliostats participating in the heating mode is adjusted according to the temperature to be reached by the medium flowing out of the receiver 401. For example, when the number of heliostats is controlled to be the third, the tube screen temperature of the receiver 401 can be made to reach the heating temperature (for example, the temperature to be reached by the medium flowing out of the receiver 401 is 565℃) through the heliostats. Ambient temperature, wind speed and other factors will affect the tube screen temperature of the receiver 401. Therefore, the selection of the number of heliostats needs to take into account the influence of ambient temperature, wind speed and other factors.

[0078] In this disclosure, the principle of the heat absorption process is as follows: The first medium pump 1021 extracts the medium (a low-temperature medium with a temperature of approximately 300°C) stored in the first tank 101, and it enters the inlet buffer tank 3 through the upward pipe 8. The medium exiting the inlet buffer tank 3 is divided into two paths, which enter two heat absorbers 401 respectively. The heat absorber 401 absorbs sunlight reflected from the mirror field (heliostat), converting it into heat energy, which is absorbed by the medium flowing through the heat absorber 401. The temperature of the medium gradually increases along the process (heating the low-temperature medium (approximately 300°C) to the high-temperature medium (approximately 565°C)). The high-temperature medium exiting the heat absorber 401 enters the outlet buffer tank 5, and then flows into the second medium tank 2 through the downward pipe 9 for storage.

[0079] Step 6: Once the flow rates of the medium in the inlet medium pipe 13 and the outlet medium pipe 14 reach a stable state, close the first exhaust pipe 30 and continue the heat absorption process; in this step, a stable state can be defined as a flow rate fluctuation within ±3% and a duration ≥5 minutes. Step 7: After the heat absorption process is completed, shut down or temporarily pause the concentrating solar collector system as needed.

[0080] The system testing method proposed in this disclosure can test and evaluate the performance of the concentrating solar collector and system, and can promptly identify and resolve problems during commissioning and operation, eliminate defects in the concentrating solar collector and system caused by various reasons, gradually enable the concentrating solar collector to reach the designed rated operating conditions and output, and enable the concentrating solar collector equipment to operate safely, reliably and stably.

[0081] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A concentrating solar thermal collector, characterized in that, It includes a first medium tank (1), an inlet buffer tank (3), a heat absorption module (4), an outlet buffer tank (5), a second medium tank (2), and a pressurization module (6); The first medium tank (1) is connected to the inlet buffer tank (3) via an upward pipe (8), the inlet buffer tank (3) is connected to the heat absorption module (4) via an inlet medium pipe (13), the heat absorption module (4) is connected to the outlet buffer tank (5) via an outlet medium pipe (14), and the outlet buffer tank (5) is connected to the second medium tank (2) via a downward pipe (9); the upward pipe (8) is connected to the downward pipe (9) via a connecting pipe (10), and the downward pipe (9) is connected to the first medium tank (1) via a return pipe (20); wherein, the temperature of the medium stored in the first medium tank (1) is lower than the temperature of the medium stored in the second medium tank (2); The upward pipe (8) is connected to the downward pipe (9) through the first drain pipe (11), and the heat absorption module (4) is connected to the first drain pipe (11) through the second drain pipe (12). A first valve (T1) is provided on the first drain pipe (11), and the connection between the second drain pipe (12) and the first drain pipe (11) is located between the first valve (T1) and the upward pipe (8). The first drain pipe (11), the connecting pipe (10), and the return pipe (20) are arranged sequentially on the downward pipe (9) in a direction away from the outlet buffer tank (5). The pressurizing module (6) is connected to the inlet buffer tank (3) and the outlet buffer tank (5). The pressurizing module (6) is configured to pressurize the inlet buffer tank (3) and the outlet buffer tank (5) so that the medium in the inlet buffer tank (3) is transferred to the heat absorption module (4) under pressure, and the medium in the outlet buffer tank (5) is transferred to the second medium tank (2) under pressure.

2. The concentrating solar collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pressurization module (6) is connected to the inlet buffer tank (3) through the first air passage (17), and the inlet buffer tank (3) is connected to the outlet buffer tank (5) through the second air passage (15).

3. The concentrating solar collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The concentrating solar collector also includes an overflow pipe (21); One end of the overflow pipe (21) is connected to the upper end of the outlet buffer tank (5), and the other end is connected to the second medium tank (2).

4. The concentrating solar collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The concentrating solar collector also includes a drainage tank (16); The upward pipe (8) is connected to the drainage tank (16) through the first bypass pipe (22), and the downward pipe (9) is connected to the drainage tank (16) through the second bypass pipe (23).

5. The concentrating solar collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first medium tank (1) is connected to a first heat exchange pipe (18), and the end of the first heat exchange pipe (18) away from the first medium tank (1) is used to connect to the first input end of the heat exchange module (7); the second medium tank (2) is connected to a second heat exchange pipe (19), and the end of the second heat exchange pipe (19) away from the second medium tank (2) is used to connect to the second input end of the heat exchange module (7); the first input end and the second input end of the heat exchange module (7) are connected internally.

6. The concentrating solar collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat absorption module (4) includes at least two heat absorbers (401) arranged in parallel; Each of the heat absorbers (401) is connected at one end to the inlet medium pipe (13) and at the other end to the outlet medium pipe (14).

7. The concentrating solar collector according to claim 6, characterized in that, The various pipes in the heat absorber (401) are connected by a transition pipe (24); The transition pipe (24) at the first end is connected to the inlet medium pipe (13) through the second pipe (28), and the transition pipe (24) at the second end is connected to the outlet buffer tank (5) through the outlet medium pipe (14); The heat absorber (401) further includes a first exhaust pipe (30); one end of the first exhaust pipe (30) is connected to the outlet buffer tank (5), and the other end is connected to the second pipe (28) and at least part of the transition pipe (24); At least part of the transition tube (24) is connected to the first pore tube (11) through the second pore tube (12).

8. The concentrating solar collector according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The concentrating solar collector also includes a discharge tank (35), and the upper end of the outlet buffer tank (5) is connected to the discharge tank (35).

9. A concentrating solar thermal collection system, characterized in that, Includes the mirror field and the concentrating solar collector as described in any one of claims 1-8; The mirror field is configured to provide solar energy to at least the heat-absorbing module (4) of the concentrating solar collector through reflection.

10. A method of using the concentrating solar thermal collection system according to claim 9, characterized in that, include: The concentrating solar collector is controlled to preheat at a preheating temperature higher than the condensation temperature of the medium. The first medium tank (1), the upstream pipe (8), the first valve (T1), the first drain pipe (11), the downstream pipe (9), the connecting pipe (10), the return pipe (20), and the outlet buffer tank (5) are controlled to be in the open state; The first medium tank (1) is controlled to output medium at a first upward flow rate, and the return pipe (20) is controlled to return medium to the first medium tank (1) at a first downward flow rate. After maintaining this state for a first preset time, the first medium tank (1) is adjusted to output medium at a second upward flow rate, and the return pipe (20) is adjusted to return medium to the first medium tank (1) at a second downward flow rate. Wherein, the second upward flow rate is greater than the first upward flow rate; the second downward flow rate is not greater than the first downward flow rate, and the first downward flow rate is not less than the first upward flow rate, and the second downward flow rate is less than the second upward flow rate. After the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank (5) rises, the inlet buffer tank (3) is opened, and the first medium tank (1) is controlled to output medium at a third upward flow rate. The medium enters the inlet buffer tank (3) and pressurizes the inlet buffer tank (3) until the pressure and liquid level in the inlet buffer tank (3) reach the preset target, and the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank (5) rises again; wherein the third upward flow rate is greater than the second upward flow rate; Close the first valve (T1), open the second drain pipe (12), control the first medium tank (1) to output the medium at the fourth upward flow rate, and after the liquid level in the outlet buffer tank (5) rises again, open the second gas path (15). Under the control of the pressurization module (6), the liquid level and pressure in the outlet buffer tank (5) and the inlet buffer tank (3) reach the preset target. Open the inlet medium pipe (13) and the outlet medium pipe (14), control the second drain pipe (12), the first drain pipe (11), the connecting pipe (10) and the return pipe (20) to be in the closed state, and control the heat absorption module (4) and the second medium tank (2) to be in the open state to carry out the heat absorption process. The fourth upward flow rate is greater than the third upward flow rate.

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