Performance of a novel double-sided irradiation receiver for next-generation solar power tower systems

Abstract

In solar power tower systems, conventional cylindrical receivers suffer from severe circumferential temperature non-uniformity and excessive thermal stress due to single-sided irradiation. To address these issues, this study proposes a novel double-sided irradiation receiver concept. A validated thermal-performance model was developed to compare the novel designs with the conventional configuration under both 10MWe Solar Two and 100MWe Dunhuang CSP projects conditions. The results demonstrate that the double-sided design maintains thermal efficiency (with a maximum increase of 0.91%) while significantly improving safety: the circumferential temperature difference is reduced by ~60%, suppressing thermal stress below the material yield strength. Economically, it reduces the number of panels, cutting receiver-specific investment by up to 93%, and shortens flow paths to lower pump power consumption by 30%-50%. This study confirms that the proposed receiver achieves full tube-surface utilization, enabling simultaneous enhancements in thermal performance, operational safety, and economic viability, thus offering a promising pathway for next-generation solar power tower technology.