levated temperatures, other parts need to be kept cool to ensure optimum performance.
The huge variations in temperature distribution have a significant effect on the mechanical design of the pump. The theoretical model helps the engineers to understand this distribution and to develop both materials and a physical design for the pump. Heat radiation must also be examined as well as ensuring that components not in contact with the molten salt, such as the electric motor and the top bearing, remain cool. Sulzer uses a sophisticated thermal model to examine the differences between the current designs and those required for the next generation. This has led to refinements of the cooling system which will be important in creating a reliable pump with a long service life. The numerical model will then be compared to the real-world results that are obtained from the pilot project.
Seal design: Together with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Sulzer’s design team will validate the manufacturing processes and evaluate the performance of the pump at these elevated temperatures. The goal is to establish a design and prove its performance in an environment that will be even more challenging than before. As with any pump, the seals play an important role, but the materials and physical design must withstand the rigors of the application. In this case, a floating ring seal, a similar system to the existing design, will be implemented for the third-generation pump.
Cost-effective solution: Using Sulzer’s expertise and knowledge in hot salt pump design, the research team is tasked with building and testing a corrosion-resistant pump and related components. The prototype will be used to evaluate performance and the manufacturing processes used to create it. The data collected from this trial will enable the costs of a pilot plant to be estimated and establish the effectiveness of using cermets or other alternative hardfacings for high temperature solar applications. In addition, the project will highlight the durability of the pump design and predict the wear of components that are exposed to molten salt. The aim is to refine the materials required for a process that will improve the efficiency of solar power generation. The need for high temperature performance as well as excellent corrosion resistance and manufacturability to achieve this goal, will undoubtedly lead to a new generation of pumps that will serve the industry for years to come.