Numerical simulation of wind loads on a parabolic trough solar collector using lattice Boltzmann and finite element methods

• Mean, RMS and peak wind loads are estimated on a parabolic trough solar collector.
• A modelling approach for the neutrally stable atmospheric boundary layer is assessed.
• Two independent numerical approaches for large eddy simulation are compared.
• Numerical results are compared with a boundary layer wind tunnel experiment.

In this study, we evaluate lattice Boltzmann and finite element methods for wind load estimation of parabolic trough solar collectors. Mean, root-mean-square (RMS) and peak values of aerodynamic load coefficients of an isolated collector are estimated using large-eddy simulation and compared with experimental results obtained in a boundary layer wind tunnel. Despite their fundamental differences, the two numerical approaches yield similar values for the drag, lift and pitching moment indicating that the results are essentially independent of the numerical schemes. Time-varying inlet boundary conditions are obtained using an efficient synthetic generation technique. The statistics of the numerical boundary layer are investigated by comparing mean and turbulence intensity profiles at varying distances from the inlet as well as the spectra and autocorrelation at the position of the structure. Through appropriate modelling of the boundary layer, the numerical models are shown to reproduce the mean, RMS and peak load behaviour measured in the wind tunnel.