Solar power tower in Concentrated Solar Power CSP power plant

Numerous dual axis tracking concentrator mirrors (heliostats) reflect sunlight onto the top of the power tower. The central receiver absorbs the concentrated solar radiation and converts it into heat creating receiver temperatures up to 1200°C. A heat transfer medium (molten salt) transfers the heat to both the power storage system and the steam generator. The part of the heat stored in molten salt tanks is used later to continue electricity production during night-time. The steam generator is part of a conventional water steam cycle, generating electricity via a steam turbine and an electrical generator.

As in any power plant there are numerous measurements used to control the process and maintain its safety. KROHNE provides a complete portfolio of measurement solutions for concentrated solar power generation and can refer on field proven products and solutions with numerous references including temperature, (differential) pressure, level and flow. Flow measurement of heat transfer fluid and molten salt at variable high temperatures is achieved using the OPTISONC 4400 ultrasonic flowmeters which can cope with temperatures up to 700 °C, fast changing temperatures, and a wide range of media properties, including inhomogeneity and stratification in the flow. OPTIWAVE 7400 high temperature FMCW radar level measurement for the molten salt tanks. OPTIBAR pressure measurement of molten salt with flush mounted diaphragm systems suitable for high temperatures and harsh process conditions. Accurate flow measurement of heat transfer fluids with good long-term stability is essential to optimise the power plant performance, to get the maximum return out of the assets. The long experience KROHNE has obtained with the application of ultrasonic flow measurement in both liquid salts and thermal oil in numerous CSP installations provides the guarantee for reliable and economic operation covering all process phases from cold/warm start through to peak power production.