Design of a Compact Fresnel System for Optimization of Industrial Processes
Abstract
The transition to renewable energy requires efficient solar-thermal conversion technologies for industrial applications. Within this field, Linear Fresnel Reflectors (LFRs) are a promising technology for providing medium-temperature process heat. A key challenge lies in optimizing LFR designs to balance optical efficiency, manufacturing cost, and ease of installation for widespread adoption. Here we show that a compact LFR system, incorporating uniformly spaced mirrors and a novel non-imaging M-shaped cavity, achieves highefficiency steam generation. This optimized configuration demonstrates a significant performance improvement over an initial prototype with a fixed receiver and non-uniform mirror layout. By comparing our design to conventional trapezoidal and compound parabolic concentrator-based cavities, we provide a clear framework for optimizing optical collection and minimizing losses. Our findings establish a practical pathway for decarbonizing industrial heat, a significant source of global carbon emissions. This work underscores the potential for material-efficient and locally manufacturable solar concentrators, offering a replicable model for sustainable energy solutions in regions with high solar insolation.
Keywords
solar energy, linear Fresnel reflector, solar thermal energy, process heat