This report describes the development, validation, and use of a heat transfer model implemented in Engineering Equation Solver (EES). The model determines the performance of a parabolic trough solar collector's linear receiver, also called a heat collector element (HCE). All heat transfer and thermodynamic equations, optical properties, and parameters used in the model are discussed. The modeling assumptions and limitations are also discussed, along with recommendations for model improvement. Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to

This paper describes a technique that uses an infrared (IR) camera to evaluate the in-situ thermal performance of parabolic trough receivers at operating solar power plants. The paper includes results to show how the glass temperature measured with the IR camera correlates with modeled thermal losses from the receiver. Finally, the paper presents results of a field survey that used this technique to quickly sample a large number of receivers to develop a better understanding of how both original and replacement receivers are performing after up to 17 years of operational service.

The SunDish is a solar thermal power system designed to produce utility-grade electricity from concentrated sunlight. The system is based on a reflective solar dish concentrator that concentrates solar energy to a Stirling engine/generator, producing a net output of up to 22kW at 1000 W/sq. m. of insolation (Stine and Diver, 1994). Salt River Project (SRP), Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), STM Corporation, and the U.S. Department of Energy have cooperated to install and operate a prototype SunDish at the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Landfill (SRP-MICL) in Tempe, Arizona. Operational results and experiences are discussed. At the site, methane gas is collected from the landfill and used as fuel in the SunDish to generate electricity when sunlight is not available due to clouds, and at night. Gas operation has presented some challenges, and operational experiences and incidents are discussed. Finally, design changes and system improvements that have resulted from operation of the prototype SunDish are discussed.