Abstract: Abstract:The parabolic trough solar thermal power generation system (parabolic trough system) accords with the requirement of “large capacity, high parameters and heat accumulation in long period”, which is the international development trend of solar thermal power generation technology. It is also most successful commercialized solar thermal power generation pattern in the world. The principle, the features and the classification of the parabolic trough system were introduced. The structure features and the development status of the heat conduction oil trough system and the direct steam power generation (DSG) trough system were expounded. It was pointed out that the DSG trough system using water as working medium is the development direction of the parabolic trough system.

Key words: Keywords:solar thermal power generation, parabolic trough system, direct steam power generation, heat conduction oil, working medium