Monitoring of thermal oil and molten salt as heat carrier in CSPs
3 ways how KROHNE can support your CSP projects
Process instrumentation for high temperature applications
Non contact high temperature level measurement in heat storage tanks
Full solution supply for solarthermal projects
Concentrated solar power plants (CSP), also known as solar thermal power plants, utilise solar radiation to generate electricity. Sunlight is concentrated using mirrors or lenses to heat a heat transfer medium. A heat transfer fluid - either thermal, molten salt or liquid sodium - is used to transfer the energy to the steam generator. The steam generator is part of a conventional water steam cycle generating electricity via a steam turbine and an electrical generator. Beside the on-going electricity production, the thermal energy is partially stored in heat storage tanks using molten salt, in order to enable electricity production during the night-time.
The utilisation of solar energy is particularly sustainable as it is a practically inexhaustible resource. In contrast to fossil fuels such as coal, gas or oil, no direct CO₂ emissions are produced when electricity is generated by solar thermal power plants. This makes a significant contribution to reducing the greenhouse effect and global climate change. In addition, solar thermal power plants do not cause any air or water pollution and require less cooling water than conventional power plants, which further minimises the environmental impact.
Challenges
Concentrated solar power plants (CSP) operate under extreme conditions, which pose a major challenge for measuring devices. Heat transfer fluids, such as thermal oils and molten salts, are exposed to high temperatures and must compensate for rapid temperature fluctuations. In addition, the physical properties of these media, including inhomogeneity and stratification in the flow, make accurate measurement difficult.
The high temperatures and harsh process environment, especially in molten salts, require robust measurement solutions that ensure precision and reliability. Ensuring accurate flow, pressure and level measurements is critical to optimising plant performance and maintaining operational safety. These challenges are exacerbated during transitions such as cold starts, warm-up phases or production peaks and require devices that can adapt to variable conditions while providing long-term stability and durability.
How can KROHNE provide support?
KROHNE offers a comprehensive range of measurement solutions tailored for concentrated solar power (CSP) generation, backed by numerous field-proven products and references across key parameters such as temperature, differential pressure, level, and flow.
Process instrumentation for high temperature applications
KROHNE's extensive experience with ultrasonic flow measurement in both liquid salts and thermal oils across CSP installations ensures reliable and economical operation throughout all process phases, from cold and warm starts to peak power production. To accurately measure the flow of heat transfer fluids and molten salts at elevated temperatures, KROHNE supplies ultrasonic flowmeters capable of handling temperatures up to 700 °C. The calibrated inline flowmeters use a patented wave guide technology which keep the transducer cool good for years of reliable operation. The meters cover the entire temperature range of the liquid state of the fluid.
Non contact high temperature level measurement in heat storage tanks
In addition to flow measurement, KROHNE provides FMCW radar technology for high-temperature level measurement in molten salt tanks. The contact free technology can be installed at the top of the molten salt storage tanks or at expansion tanks without contacting the fluid.
Full solution supply for solarthermal projects
KROHNE offers specially developed solutions and comprehensive support for CSP (Concentrated Solar Power) projects. As an experienced partner in process measurement technology, KROHNE supplies all essential process control instruments for the entire power generation process in CSP plants.
Our industry-specific solutions are designed to meet the unique requirements of this technology. This includes compliance with specific standards, the use of suitable materials for high temperatures and aggressive media, as well as extensive testing and documentation processes. In addition, we support our customers with technical expertise and tailored consultancy. Whether selecting the most suitable measurement technology, integrating it into existing systems, or ensuring regulatory compliance.
Contribution to Sustainability
Optimised resource use for lower environmental impact: Precision monitoring of temperature, pressure, and flow allows solar thermal plants to operate at peak efficiency, reducing the overall carbon footprint.
Enhanced durability for reduced waste: High-performance, heat-resistant sensors ensure long equipment life by detecting issues early, reducing the need for replacements and minimising waste from frequent maintenance or component turnover.
Reducing environmental risks: Continuous monitoring of system pressures helps prevent leaks of heat transfer fluids, minimising potential environmental impacts and supporting safer operations.
Further Benefits
Enhanced operational efficiency: Accurate measurement of temperature, pressure and flow optimises the performance of solar thermal systems and leads to a higher energy yield.
Reduced maintenance costs: Reliable measurement devices minimise unexpected downtime and extend the service life of systems, reducing replacement costs.
Improved asset management: Continuous monitoring and accurate diagnostics facilitate better asset management, enabling operators to make informed decisions about performance optimisation and resource allocation.
Supporting Sustainability with Precision
With our advanced measurement technology, KROHNE contributes to sustainability by ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of solar thermal power plants, which are essential for clean energy production. Our precise process instrumentation enables accurate monitoring that allows early detection of deviations or potential problems, optimising energy conversion and minimising waste of resources. In addition, by improving the performance and longevity of CSP systems, our solutions help to reduce maintenance requirements and operational downtime.