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Solar energy

Solar energy

Energy, solar energy
Energy, solar energy

Maximum precision, even in the desert

Solar-thermal power plants currently deliver power outputs of 100 megawatts or more. To generate this energy, many thousands of mirrors need to be aligned precisely and continuously aligned with the sun. This requires sensors that not only have accurate control, but also withstand the extreme environmental conditions, for example, in desert regions. We have developed measurement systems with which you can reliably detect these movements and realise efficient plants.

Application examples

  • Guide photovoltaic modules

    The cost-effective and reliable solution for position determination

    The solution

    Our BES inductive sensors offer efficient solutions for numerous applications. For position detection in linear drives, the BES inductive sensor does not return an absolute position, but detects the change of position by counting pulses. This makes the Balluff sensor solution more cost-effective than, for example, a rotary encoder.

    The features

    • Extended switching distance
    • Extended temperature range
    Energy, solar energy, guiding photovoltaic modules
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  • Position heliostats

    Precise positioning at low costs and with low-maintenance operation

    The solution

    The positioning accuracy of the heliostats in solar tower power plants contributes substantially to the efficiency of the entire system. Particularly high demands are therefore placed on the sensors. Our BML magnetically encoded position and angle measurements system can even handle the tough conditions in desert regions. It operates contactlessly and is therefore very low-maintenance, thereby helping to prevent downtimes.

    The features

    • Low-wear and low-maintenance thanks to contact-free operation
    • Cost-effective installation
    • Very high accuracy
    Energy, solar energy, positioning heliostats
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  • Guide parabolic troughs according to the sun's path

    High efficiency thanks to precise guiding and focusing

    The solution

    To achieve the highest possible level of efficiency in parabolic trough power plants, all troughs must continuously be adjusted to follow the sun's path. And the receiver tubes must also always be focused precisely. Our BML magnetically encoded position and angle measurement system delivers convincing performance with its high precision, even when subject to major temperature strains.

    The features

    • Direct measurement
    • Precise position detection
    • Determining reference points
    Energy, solar energy, guiding parabolic troughs according to the sun's path
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  • Align parabolic troughs with the position of the sun

    Higher efficiency thanks to precise and reliable alignment

    The solution

    The high temperatures that need to be generated in parabolic trough power plants require that the parabolic troughs be precisely aligned with the position of the sun. Our BSI absolute inclination sensors reliably ensure precise tracking, even after power failure. They thereby increase the efficiency of your solar power plant.

    The features

    • Reliability through continuous position detection
    • High accuracy over a full 360 degrees
    • Installation made easy by compact, robust metal housing
    • No reference run required
    Energy, solar energy, aligning parabolic troughs with the position of the sun
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    Industry team

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  • Align and guide flat mirrors

    Accurate alignment for maximum efficiency

    The solution

    The flat mirrors of Fresnel mirror collectors should ideally have the exact same focal point at every time. Only then is maximum efficiency achieved. Balluff BSI inclination sensors reliably ensure the precise alignment of each individual mirror element.

    The features

    • High accuracy
    • Compact dimensions
    • Easy to install
    • No reference run required
    Energy, solar energy, aligning and guiding flat mirrors
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    Industry team

    Do you have questions? Would you like a consultation? Our industry team looks forward to hearing from you.