Designing and Testing of a High-Temperature Parti-cle Lift for Concentrating Solar Power Applications

Abstract

The use of solid particles in concentrated solar power (CSP) technologies enables operation at elevated temperatures (approximately 1000°C), resulting in improved thermal efficiencies and reduced costs for CSP applications. However, achieving high-temperature operation in particle-based systems presents significant challenges, as all key components must be rigorously evaluated under elevated temperature conditions. In a particle-based CSP system, a substantial amount of heat loss occurs during the handling of particles. Furthermore, as the system's capacity increases, the height of the tower also rises, leading to prolonged travel times for the particles and consequently greater heat loss. King Saud University and Sandia National Laboratories are collaborating on the design, testing, and risk mitigation of a cost-effective particle lift system (PLS) suitable for high-temperature applications. This paper outlines the design basis, sizing methodology, scaling considerations, and ground testing of two different PLS scales.