During the last months, different systems had been tested by means of a dummy receiver connected to dummy hoses, simulating work conditions. Once the tests were completed, both the receiver and the hoses were replaced by the real ones. The operation was carried out from 20^th to 22^nd April and needed the participation and the cooperation of different partners and their subcontractors. The thermal installation is now complete with its real components.

The elevation of the ensemble was performed by means of a crane which lifted the real hoses, already connected to the receiver, while the receiver itself was lifted by the tracking system cables, in a coordinated operation. The hoses’ end, opposite to the receiver, was connected to the skid installation, on top of the main metallic tower.

In the following days, the system will be filled with HTF, and then the thermal loop system will be ready for the different tests that will assess its fine working. In a few weeks the solar field will be installed, before the start of the final period of set-up tests. Stay tuned for more news !

The prototype at Cener facilities in Sangüesa is on its way towards its final state, as depicted in this video created by Increscendo:

Here is a brief overview of the last works carried out on the construction site:  

• The mounting towers for the mobile elements and the oven have been erected.
• The mechanical, optical and electrical elements of the tracking system have been installed and are being tested.
• The innovative dummy hoses have been connected to the receiver.
• The meteorological station has been connected to the tracking system, and the DCS of the whole prototype has been updated to achieve a full control of the plant.

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The next key step will be the installation of the field of the solar mirrors, along with the evaluation of a watering system for the mirrors.

For more information about the tracking system, have a look at the latest news by Tekniker.