Simulation model for the transient process behaviour of solar aluminium recycling in a rotary kiln

The model was adapted and validated by recycling experiments using a rotary kiln in mini-plant scale heated by a solar furnace. Subsequent experimental results were in good agreement with the data predicted by the transient calculations. Taking this as a basis the model was applied to predict a possible operation concept for a stand-alone plant operated solar-only at El Paso, Texas. An important step for further design studies was the calculation of the overall efficiency and the number of cycles feasible at representative days in such a plant. In a representative parameter studies the influence of geometrical kiln parameters on the efficiency and cycle duration of the batch process was investigated.