OPTIMIZATION OF LINEAR FRESNEL REFLECTOR SOLAR THERMAL SYSTEM FOR ENHANCED THERMAL PERFORMANCE IN HIGH SOLAR IRRADIANCE REGIONS

Linear Fresnel Reflector (LFR) solar thermal systems are promising technologies for harnessing high-intensity solar radiation to generate heat for power production and industrial applications. This study focuses on optimizing the design and operational parameters of an LFR system to enhance its thermal performance in regions characterized by high direct normal irradiance (DNI). A hybrid optimization approach combining computational fluid dynamics (CFD), Response Surface Methodology (RSM), and Genetic Algorithm (GA) is employed to evaluate and improve key variables such as reflector alignment, absorber geometry, and heat transfer fluid flow rates. Results demonstrate that the optimized LFR design achieves a significant increase in thermal efficiency while minimizing heat losses caused by convection and radiation. Sensitivity analysis identifies the most influential parameters, guiding future design improvements. The findings provide valuable insights for deploying efficient LFR systems in arid and semi-arid climates with high solar potential.