Abstract: A solar receiver has an arrangement of heat transfer surfaces and a heat transfer fluid phase separator, such as a vertical steam/water separator, fluidly interconnected thereto. The receiver includes a plurality of heat transfer fluid filled components, and at least one alternate heat source. When various temperature measurements indicate freezing or solidification of the fluid is possible, the alternate heat source is activated to maintain a temperature of the fluid greater than the freezing/solidification point of the fluid. The application of the alternate heat source further induces natural circulation of the fluid within the components, further providing freeze/solidification protection to the receiver. A controller may be configured to receive sensed temperatures of the fluid, components, ambient air, etc., and use these temperatures relative to a threshold temperature to activate, vary output, and deactivate one or more alternate heat sources.

Abstract: A shop-assembled solar receiver heat exchanger having an arrangement of heat transfer surfaces and a vertical steam/water separator structurally and fluidically interconnected thereto. A vertical support structure is provided to support the vertical separator and the heat transfer surfaces. The vertical support structure is bottom supported, while the vertical steam/water separator and heat exchanger heat transfer surfaces are top supported from the vertical support structure. The vertical support structure provides structural support and rigidity for the heat exchanger and a means by which the heat exchanger can be picked up and lifted for placement at a desired location. A fabrication/transport/lifting fixture is provided which facilitates fabrication, assembly, transportation and erection of the heat exchanger from the shop to the field. The fixture supports two trunnion shafts attached to the support structure of the receiver. Lifting lugs would be located on the top end of the support structure.

Abstract: A solar receiver includes a multi-sided central assembly with wing assemblies extending from corners thereof. The central assembly includes one-sided heat absorption panels, while the wing assemblies use two-sided heat absorption panels. Stiffener structures run across the exposed faces of the various heat absorption panels.

Abstract: A shop-assembled solar receiver heat exchanger having an arrangement of heat transfer surfaces and a vertical steam/water separator structurally and fluidically interconnected thereto. A vertical support structure is provided to support the vertical separator and the heat transfer surfaces. The vertical support structure is bottom supported, while the vertical steam/water separator and heat exchanger heat transfer surfaces are top supported from the vertical support structure. The vertical support structure provides structural support and rigidity for the heat exchanger and a means by which the heat exchanger can be picked up and lifted for placement at a desired location. A fabrication/transport/lifting fixture is provided which facilitates fabrication, assembly, transportation and erection of the heat exchanger from the shop to the field. The fixture supports two trunnion shafts attached to the support structure of the receiver. Lifting lugs would be located on the top end of the support structure.