Improvement of the performance of thermal energy storage systems with conical annular enclosure using magnetic field

Abstract

This study numerically investigates the integration of passive and active heat transfer enhancement techniques to develop a highly efficient thermal storage system for quick charging rates. A conical design for the shell of latent heat thermal energy storage systems is combined with a diametrically magnetized cylindrical magnet to improve its performance. Numerical simulations explore the effect of the non-uniform magnetic field on latent heat thermal energy storage systems with conical enclosures at different tilting angles. The obtained results indicate that increasing the tilting angle of the enclosure of the nanoparticle enhanced phase change material reduces charging time by promoting more effective natural convection. Besides, the magnetic field enhances convective heat transfer between the heat transfer fluid and the nanoparticle enhanced phase change material, resulting in faster melting and the combined effects of magnetic and buoyancy forces reduce the overall melting time. The higher magnetic field intensities lead to a larger portion of the volume melting of nanoparticle enhanced phase change material and accelerated melting front advancement. Furthermore, the effect of the tilting angle on the process of melting is nearly eliminated for higher intensities of the applied magnetic field. This innovative combination holds significant potential for enhancing the performance of latent heat thermal energy storage systems, enabling efficient thermal storage and achieving rapid charging rates.