Abstract
Employing phase-change materials (PCM) is considered a very efficient and cost-effective option for addressing the mismatch between the energy supply and the demand. The high storage density, little temperature degradation, and ease of material processing register the PCM as a key candidate for the thermal energy storage system. However, the sluggish response rates during their melting and solidification processes limit their applications and consequently require the inclusion of heat transfer enhancers. This research aims to investigate the potential enhancement of circular fins on intensifying the PCM thermal response in a vertical triple-tube casing. Fin arrays of non-uniform dimensions and distinct distribution patterns were designed and investigated to determine the impact of modifying the fin geometric characteristics and distribution patterns in various spatial zones of the heat exchanger. Parametric analysis on the various fin structures under consideration was carried out to determine the most optimal fin structure from the perspective of the transient melting evolution and heat storage rates while maintaining the same design limitations of fin material and volume usage. The results revealed that changing the fin dimensions with the heat-flow direction results in a faster charging rate, a higher storage rate, and a more uniform temperature distribution when compared to a uniform fin size. The time required to fully charge the storage system (fully melting of the PCM) was found to be reduced by up to 10.4%, and the heat storage rate can be improved by up to 9.3% compared to the reference case of uniform fin sizes within the same fin volume limitations.
Highlights
Introduction conditions of the Creative CommonsThe transition from fossil fuels toward renewable energies such as sunlight and wind is widely recognized these days as the most important step toward converting the global energy system into one that is both economically and environmentally sustainable
Al-Abidi et al [34] examined the impact of including longitudinal fins on phase-change materials (PCM) charging response in the triple-tube Thermal energy storage (TES) unit under various heat-transfer fluid (HTF) temperature and flow conditions, and the results indicated that the HTF temperature has a greater effect on the enhanced melting rate than the HTF flow rate
Sciacovelli et al [35] achieved a 24% higher discharging efficiency with the application of Y-shaped fins in the PCM-based shell-and-tube storage system, and the results indicated that the short-duration operation of PCM systems requires larger
Summary
Introduction conditions of the Creative CommonsThe transition from fossil fuels toward renewable energies such as sunlight and wind is widely recognized these days as the most important step toward converting the global energy system into one that is both economically and environmentally sustainable. Nanomaterials 2022, 12, 403 the fact that almost all sources of renewable energy are fluctuating and intermittent in their availability and amount, energy storage is essential for the widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies. Thermal energy storage (TES) is one of the most promising energy storage technologies available today, and it is one of the most cost-effective options [1]. It is being advocated because it has the potential to provide consistent production of power from these sources, preserving the limited fossil-fuel sources, and lowering the need for pricey natural gas and oil imports [2]. As a consequence, developing efficient designs is very important to carefully match the suitable TES technology to each specific application of renewable energy
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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 call
