Dishes, as optical concentrators, are well known. The key challenge is to provide a solution that meets cost per square meter goals. HelioFocus has the know-how of industry targets from existing technologies. We also know the right combination of mechanical strength and optical performance versus system needs to provide an optimal solution. This parameter is critical as the dish cost within the overall system cost is significant.
HelioFocus developed an optical and mechanical dish concept that enables great reduction of the system cost. The optical design of the dish achieves the highest possible cycle efficiency. The key challenge lies in achieving low cost per delivered kWh, compared to existing optical concentrators. The HelioFocus dish comprises simple carbon steel elements to form a solid structure, which supports an array of curved solar mirrors (2 axes).
The way the mirrors are placed on the metal structure (Fresnel) and the shape of the mirrors, creates a parabolic shaped approximation which provides the highest optical efficiency known today, compared with other optical concentrators such as the parabolic trough or heliostat. Additionally, the fact that the dish tracks the sun on two axes (rotation and elevation) increases the overall solar radiation utilization and enables more solar effective hours.
