Work

Effects of the Fluctuating Wind Loads on Flow Field Distribution and Structural Response of the Dish Solar Concentrator System Under Multiple Operating Conditions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: With the rapid development of solar thermal power generation technology, the structural stability of the dish solar concentrator system under complex wind environments has become a critical limiting factor for its large-scale application. This study investigates the flow field distribution and structural response under fluctuating wind loads using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). A three-dimensional model was developed and simulated in ANSYS Fluent under varying wind angles and speed cycles. The results indicate that changes in the concentrator’s orientation significantly influence the airflow field, with the most adverse effects observed at low elevation angles (0°) and an azimuth angle of 60°. Short-period wind loads (T = 25 s) exacerbate transient impact effects of lift forces and overturning moments, markedly increasing structural fatigue risks. Long-period winds (T = 50 s) amplify cumulative drag forces and tilting moments (e.g., peak drag of −73.9 kN at β = 0°). Key parameters for wind-resistant design are identified, including critical angles and period-dependent load characteristics.

Source: Processes

DOI: 10.3390/pr13113444

Authors: Jianing He, Hongyan Zuo, Guohai Jia, Yuhao Su, Jiaqiang E

Institution: Hunan University

Language: English

Topic: Solar Thermal and Photovoltaic Systems

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896