CSP technology uses mirrors (predominantly parabolic mirrors) to reflect and concentrate sunlight onto receivers that collect solar energy and convert it to heat. Dow Heat Transfer Fluids, notably DOWTHERM™ A Fluid, are used to collect the heat energy and transport it to a power generating station.
The transported heat converts water to steam which in turn drives turbines to make electricity. DOWTHERM™ A is a synthetic organic fluid capable of operating at temperatures as high as 400°C (750°F) to collect, transport, and store heat in CSP applications. It offers the high temperature stability necessary to avoid unacceptable fluid degradation at elevated operating temperatures. Degradation can increase makeup fluid requirements, reduce overall fluid life, and cause build-up of sludge or other byproducts that reduce system heat transfer efficiency and increase maintenance expense.
Dow combines advanced fluid technology with the production capacity and the supply chain and logistics capabilities necessary to deliver the large volumes of fluids required by CSP installations within required timeframes and to often remote locations. In-depth technical support services are provided to enable CSP operators to maintain fluids to ensure maximum service life and economy as well as optimum operating efficiency.
View Our Seville Presentation (2010): "Offering Long Term Solutions through Sustainable Chemistry to the CSP Industry."
View Our Abu Dhabi Presentation (2009): “Successful Use of Synthetic Heat Transfer Fluids in CSP Plants – Proven Experience from Existing Plants and Projects”