Thermal Shields in Solar Towers: the key component we cannot ignore
When discussing concentrated solar power (CSP) technology, attention is usually focused on the efficiency of the receiver and of the heliostats. However, there is an essential element that rarely receives the recognition it deserves: the insulation and protection of the receiver. The thermal shield and the systems that insulate the receiver and oven boxes are essential for the operation and efficiency of the tower. Paradoxically, they are often underestimated both technically and budget-wise.
Recognising the invisible
In the world of CSP, where optimising performance and reducing operational costs are crucial, thermal shields must take priority in the design and budgeting of any solar tower. The most surprising fact is that proper insulation and protection of the receiver account for less than 0.5% of the total budget of a complete tower. This is a minimal percentage compared to the impact it can have on the efficiency and longevity of the installation. Taking risks in this aspect is a mistake that can be costly.
Custom design
Each solar tower, even those designed by the same company, presents unique characteristics that require fully customised thermal insulation and protection solutions. This means that thermal shields must be tailor-made for each project, preventing mass production, which in other sectors would allow cost reductions. This necessity brings major challenges in terms of design and engineering but also ensures that each tower operates under optimal conditions, maximising its efficiency and lifespan.
Learning from past mistakes
Recently, we have learned that some projects are using silicate plates fixed with "cap locks" as thermal shields. However, this system already proved its failures more than a decade ago in previous installations, with documented issues affecting its performance and durability. History has taught us that inadequate thermal shield design can compromise the operation of a CSP plant, leading to energy losses, structural failures, and even safety problems. Ignoring these lessons and repeating the same mistakes can only result in poor performance and costly future corrections.
Nova Therm Tech has been innovating and developing tailor-made solutions for years to ensure that each tower can operate at its maximum capacity without compromising efficiency or safety.
The development of concentrated solar power continues to progress, but to ensure its long-term viability, it is essential to learn from past lessons and give each component the value it deserves. It is not just about innovation but about ensuring that plants remain efficient, safe, and sustainable over time. Ignoring the importance of thermal insulation is an unnecessary risk for a technology that plays a crucial role in the energy transition.
