Abstract

A mathematical model and novel numerical method are proposed for calculating flows of gaseous heat transfer fluid in axisymmetric thermal energy storages (TES) based on granular phase change materials (PCM). The developed computational technique is based on finite difference method and uses a combination of explicit and implicit schemes. Using the resolution tests, the detailed convergence analysis of the numerical method is carried out. The efficiency of the developed model is demonstrated by simulating the processes of heating, energy storage and cooling of the TES taking into account the lateral heat losses at various values of heat loss intensity and PCM heat conductivity. A comparison of the solutions obtained by 1D and 2D models is carried out, and the applicability of commonly used 1D approach for simulating processes in the axisymmetric TES with lateral heat losses is analyzed. It is shown that the ability of the 1D model to predict the averaged parameters decreases not only with increasing heat transfer coefficient, but also with decreasing PCM heat conductivity. The use of the 1D approach at large lateral heat losses does not provide guaranteed lower or upper bound for the sought parameters.

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

Disclaimer: 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.