ABSTRACT:
DELSOL is a quick and accurate computer program for calculating the collector field performance, field layout, and optimal system design for solar central receiver plants. The code consists of a detailed model of the optical performance, a simpler model of the non-optical performance, an algorithm for field layout, and a searching algorithm to find the best system design. The latter two features are coupled to a cost model of central receiver components and an economic model for calculating energy costs. The code can handle flat, focused and/or canted heliostats, and external cylindrical, multi-aperture .cavities, and flat plate receivers. The program optimizes the tower height, receiver size, field layout, and power level.