Abstract
Nowadays, flexibility through energy storage constitutes a key feature for the optimal management of energy systems. Concerning thermal energy, Latent Heat Thermal Storage (LHTS) units are characterized by a significantly higher energy density with respect to sensible storage systems. For this reason, they represent an interesting solution where limited space is available. Nevertheless, their market development is limited by engineering issues and, most importantly, by scarce knowledge about LHTS integration in existing energy systems. This study presents a new modeling approach to quickly characterize the dynamic behavior of an LHTS unit. The thermal power released or absorbed by a LHTS module is expressed only as a function of the current and the initial state of charge. The proposed model allows simulating even partial charge and discharge processes. Results are fairly accurate when compared to a 2D finite volume model, although the computational effort is considerably lower. Summarizing, the proposed model could be used to investigate optimal LHTS control strategies at the system level. In this paper, two relevant case studies are presented: (a) the reduction of the morning thermal power peak in District Heating systems; and (b) the optimal energy supply schedule in multi-energy systems.
Highlights
The thermal energy storage is a key element for increasing the operational flexibility of energy systems, especially when these are supplied by renewable energy sources
Latent Heat Thermal Storage (LHTS) technologies have scarcely been introduced to market, and their TechnologyReadiness Level (TRL) is lower than seven [1], which indicates that this technology has generally been demonstrated only in operational environments
System used as a reference is a vertical shell-and-tube type, where finned tubes are crossed by water as heat transfer fluid (HTF) and its shell encloses the Phase Change Materials (PCMs)
Summary
The thermal energy storage is a key element for increasing the operational flexibility of energy systems, especially when these are supplied by renewable energy sources. An increasing amount of attention is focused on LHTS systems in order to advance their Technology. LHTS technologies have scarcely been introduced to market, and their TRL is lower than seven [1], which indicates that this technology has generally been demonstrated only in operational environments. In this framework, numerous LHTS modeling approaches have been proposed in the existing literature.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
