Numerical modelling of wind and dust patterns around a full-scale paraboloidal solar dish

This study reports on numerical predictions of velocity and pressure fields, and dust particles trajectories in steady and unsteady flows around a full-scale paraboloidal solar dish. Calculations are performed for three wind speeds of 4.16, 9.72, and 15.2 m s−1, and dish pitch angles from 0° to 180°. The flow field structure, lift and drag coefficients are calculated for each flow configuration. Using the predicted mean flow velocity field, analytical expressions for the aerodynamic coefficients, as a function of the pitch angle, are developed. The unsteady-state flow is characterised by formation of stable vortices behind the dish for most flow configurations, except at 60° and 150° pitch angles. At these angles vortex-shedding occurred with a strong flow oscillation extending downstream the dish. The calculations of dust particles trajectories provide a qualitative assessment of the deposition rate, dish orientation, and surface locations where dust accumulation is most likely to occur. The study also presents an initial assessment of the effectiveness of various windbreaks installed upstream of the dish in reducing aerodynamics drag.

► A three-dimensional steady-state and transient flow models around a full-scale paraboloidal solar dish.
► Aerodynamic forces computed for dish at 0°–180° pitch angles to develop analytical formulae.
► Vortex-shedding occurs only at 60° and 150° dish pitch angle.
► Windbreaks are effective means for reducing aerodynamic forces.