Validation of a simulation model for parabolic trough collectors in a high-latitude district heating system
Abstract
Currently, companies in the solar heating sector may choose from a wide range of tools for modelling and simulating solar thermal power. However, due to the deviant design of some collectors, conventional simulation tools may be inadequate in correctly assessing the performance of such collectors. This study aims to test and validate an in-house simulation model for T160 PTC collectors developed by the company Absolicon Solar Collector AB by comparing measured data with simulated results. A solar district heating (SDH) plant in Härnösand, Sweden featuring 192 parabolic trough collectors (PTC) is used as a case study for the validation. Operational data such as weather data, solar heat production and collector loop/ambient temperatures were collected from the facilities of Absolicon. The data was compiled and simulated using a Python model developed for the T160 collectors. The study shows an acceptable correlation between simulated and measured data during periods with high DNI where a relatively high amount of heat is delivered to the district heating. Deviations are present during periods of low DNI and can be derived from inadequate assessments of heat losses from the piping of the installation in addition to inaccurate measurement data.