Yokogawa releases HXS10 controller for solar tracking applications.
Yokogawa Electric Corporation has announced the release of the HXS10 controller: a new product to control the actuation systems that move heliostats (reflectors) and photovoltaic panels in power generation systems. The HXS10 helps to maximise efficiency by controlling the angles of heliostats and solar panels to keep them directly pointed at the sun as it moves across the sky.
Development background
Renewable energy is seen as an alternative to the world’s dwindling supply of fossil fuels and as a means of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In recent years, one of the driving forces for solar thermal and photovoltaic power generation is its ability to generate electricity during daytime hours, when demand is at its highest.
In a solar thermal power generation system, sunlight is concentrated onto a receiver that uses the heat to turn water into steam that is used to drive a turbine and generate electricity. By accurately controlling the angle of a heliostat to track the movement of the sun, it is possible to focus sunlight onto the receiver with more precision. Although most solar panels used today are of the fixed type, power generating efficiency can be improved if panels are kept at an optimal angle towards the sun. Control technology is crucial.
Yokogawa has developed the HXS10 to control the actuation systems of solar thermal and photovoltaic power generation systems. Based on the facility location, date, and time, the HXS10 calculates the position of the sun through a high-resolution (64-bit) solar position algorithm, and operates motors or hydraulic actuators to adjust the angle of the heliostats and solar panels so they stay pointed directly toward the sun.
Product features
* Low-cost/high-value design – the HXS10 is designed specifically for the control of solar tracking systems. Compared to general purpose controllers it has lower initial costs and requires less engineering time.
* Excellent environmental resistance – built of environmentally resistant and durable components the unit can withstand temperatures from –20 to 70°C. Optimal for the control of solar power generating facilities installed in deserts and other harsh locations.
* Communication functions – these have been designed to allow the controller to be monitored by a central host system. To eliminate overload, communications can be routed to the host system via another HXS10 unit.
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