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Prototype
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Prototype #1
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In October 2007 ALE built in Biasca a 1:1 scale prototype having a mirror with 8 m aperture and 50 meter in length. In a real power plant several of those elements would be connected together forming 200 - 250 m length elements.
This prototype has a two functions: to verify the thermal efficiency and to confirm the construction costs per square meter.
Our prototype is also required to optimize its components and its design in general.
Preliminary measures have confirmed the calculated behavior and already generated further interesting innovations.
Test and validation of all major components:
• Concrete frame
• Mirror
• Pressure controle
• Tilting system
• Construction details
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Prototype #2
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In July 2008 ALE has modified the existing prototype into the newer version which comprises many improved components.
The overall pillow thickness has been increased to allow the receiver to be placed inside. Such configuration reduces the loss of heat caused by the wind.
Moreover, a secondary mirror which corrects the spherical aberration and increases the concentration factor has been added.
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Prototype #3
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During the month of October 2009 the 3rd prototype have been presented. The new optical configuration has many advantages:
- no secondary mirror
- up side-down receiver
- no protection glass on receiver
- multiarc quasi-parabolic mirror enabling higher concentration
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