Piping of the molten salt pump
In order to limit corrosion rates in the process piping, the pipe size was chosen to establish a target flow rate of 3 meters per second (m/s). Given the fluid properties of solar salt, this corresponds to a target pipe ID of 0.8 inches. The closest standard pipe dimension is NPS 3/4 sch 40, which has a 1.05 inch OD and a 0.11 inch wall thickness, resulting in a 0.83 inch ID. The material selected is 304 stainless steel. This piping material is readily available and easy to procure from a variety of local vendors.
In order to prevent the formation of freeze plugs from molten salt accumulating in the lines and freezing following a pump shutdown, the plumbing is designed with a 2% inclination at all practical locations.