National Solar Thermal Test Facility

Operated by Sandia National Laboratories for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the National Solar Thermal Test Facility (NSTTF) is the only test facility of this type in the United States. The NSTTF’s primary goal is to provide experimental engineering data for the design, construction, and operation of unique components and systems in proposed solar thermal electrical plants planned for large-scale power generation.

In addition, the site was built and instrumented to provide test facilities for a variety of solar and nonsolar applications. The facility can provide

• high heat flux and temperatures for materials testing or aerodynamic heating simulation;
• large fields of optics for astronomical observations or satellite calibrations;
• a solar furnace; and
• a rotating platform for parabolic trough evaluation.

The NSTTF welcomes all users. Several mechanisms are available for non-Sandia researchers to contract with Sandia to use the facility. Previous users include government contractors and agencies, research institutes, universities, and private companies. For more information please contact Dr. Ryan Anderson, 505-844-8367 or to discuss details of specific tests and other ways to contract with Sandia for this type of work.

PLEASE NOTE: All NSTTF site visits must be arranged in advance due to base security requirements (Sandia National Laboratories is located entirely within Kirtland Air Force Base boundaries). Contact 505-845-3334 to arrange for a site visit (maps to NSTTF will be provided).

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