A Comparative Analysis Between Ceramic and Metallic Receiver Designs

The outlet temperature targets for Gen 3 Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) systems pose a significant challenge to the structural reliability of high-temperature metallic materials. Advanced ceramics are a promising option due to their high temperature strength and low thermal expansion. However, challenges such as limited ductility and fabrication issues need to be addressed. Before tackling manufacturing challenges, CSP developers must determine the viability of high temperature ceramic components in system design, considering factors like plant operating life. This paper presents a comparative design analysis of tubular external receivers constructed from a high temperature nickel-based superalloy, A740H and a monolithic ceramic material, commercial SiC, using srlife, an open-source receiver evaluation and life prediction tool. Results indicate that A740H receivers can achieve a 30-year service life if the flux is limited to 450 kW/m², which may not be economically viable. In contrast, the Weibull 3-parameter model estimates a service life exceeding 30 years for SiC receivers, even at a much higher flux limit of 1000 kW/m².