Optimal arrangement of the solar collectors of a supercritical CO2-based solar Rankine cycle system

This paper investigates an optimal arrangement of the solar collectors of a supercritical CO2-based Solar Rankine Cycle System (SRCS). The investigated modes consist of three: Parallel with each 5 units in series, Cascade with each 5 units in series and 5 units only in series. Based on the heat collection of the collectors, its efficiency, CO2 mass flow rate and temperature at the collector inlet and outlet, it is found that the cascade arrangement of the solar collectors gives the best performance in regarding to the objectives of the present SRCS producing electric power and utilizing solar thermal energy.

► Arrangements of the solar collectors in a solar Rankine system are investigated.
► The cascade arrangement of the solar collectors gives the best performance.
► The study is helpful for readers to develop solar-thermal-energy technologies.