The DISS (DIrect Solar Steam) project is a complete R+TD program aimed at developing a new generation of solar thermal power plants with direct steam generation (DSG) in the absorber tubes of parabolic trough collectors. During the first phase of the project (1996-1998), a life-size test facility was implemented at the Plataforma Solar de Almerı´a (PSA) to investigate the basic DSG processes under real solar conditions and evaluate the unanswered technical questions concerning this new technology. This paper updates DISS project status and explains O&M-related experience (e.g., main problems faced and solutions applied) with the PSA DISS test facility since January 1999.

Issue Section:
Technical Papers
Keywords:
solar power stations, solar absorber-convertors, steam power stations, steam, test facilities, project engineering
Topics:
Parabolic troughs, Pipes, Solar energy, Steam, Water, Pressure, Pumps, Test facilities, Maintenance, Temperature
1.
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Eck, M., and Steinmann, W.-D., 2001, “Direct Steam Generation in Parabolic Troughs: Results of the DISS Project.” Proc. of Forum 2001 Conference of ASME Solar Division, Washington, DC.
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6.
Garcı´a, X., 2000, “Overall Energetic Comparison of DSG and Oil-Based Parabolic Trough Systems with Rankine Cycles for Electricity Generation.” Project DISS Technical Report DISS-SC–QA–06. Almerı´a, Spain.
Copyright © 2002
 by ASME
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