Authors

Abstract

In this paper, the dynamic response of parabolic-trough due to wind loading was
conducted in different flow field environment and configurations experimentally
and numerically. First, Experimental modal analysis (EMA) was performed to
evaluate the vibrational characteristics for prototype of parabolic trough that
manufactured for this purpose. Direct pressure sensors array were used to measure
the pressure values over the parabolic trough model surface due to wind load at
different operational attitudes. Then, the dynamic response (displacement) of the
parabolic-trough due to measured wind loads (pressure) was measured
experimentally and numerically. The numerical solution for dynamic response was
performed using the finite element approach. The response of the parabolic-trough
to wind loads was evaluated for different wind velocities and different angles of
attack. A comparison between these results was made to verify the effect of the
angles of attack and wind velocity on the dynamic response. The results showed
that the suggested approach gave good indication for evaluating the wind load
effect on the dynamic response of parabolic trough the solar collector.

Keywords