The Solar Concentrators Testing Platform aims to experimentally determine the parameters of optical and thermal characterization of solar concentrator modules designed for solar radiation conversion temperatures in the medium temperature range (100 ° C <T<400 ° C). In this range, the most common technologies are cylinder-parabolic or linear Fresnel linear focus. However, the principles followed in the design and operation of the platform, allow the testing of any technological concept.

The tests are performed according to the quasi-dynamic method described in the ISO 9806 standard, which implies restrictions in terms of the stability of the test fluid temperature and its flow, as well as the range of angles of incidence of solar radiation on the collector opening. To meet these requirements, the testing platform can move on two axes and is coupled to a hydraulic circuit with heating, cooling and flow regulation capabilities where thermal oil circulates. The flexible hydraulic connections guarantee the rotation of the section of the hydraulic circuit installed on the test platform (feeder and return of the collector), around the vertical axis (azimuth movement) and the horizontal axis (lifting movement).