Heat transfer characteristics of a linear solar collector.

The heat transfer characteristics of a linear solar energy collector are calculated as functions of dimensions, spectral quality of the selective absorber surface, optical flux concentration of the optical configuration, and thermal parameters and flow rate of the heat transfer medium. Carnot efficiency, exit temperature, and an upper limit to the amount of heat extracted are determined for systems in which liquid sodium serves as the heat transfer medium. The performance is evaluated for selective absorber surfaces representing the state of the art as well as for surfaces requiring a more mature thin-film technology.