Thermal-mechanical coupling characteristics of large-scale molten salt storage tanks under stable operating conditions with varying liquid levels

Abstract

The large-scale molten salt storage tank is a critical component of the thermal storage system employed in concentrating solar power (CSP) plants. The storage tank is subjected to complex conditions, including high temperature, fluctuating hydrostatic pressure, and thermal stress. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the thermal-mechanical coupling characteristics of the tank during stable operation under varying liquid levels to comprehensively understand its behavior. The study commences by establishing thermal and stress analysis models for the tank, laying the foundation for subsequent investigation. Subsequently, a comprehensive thermal-mechanical coupling model is constructed using a sequential coupling approach, enabling a more accurate representation of the system's behavior. Finally, an in-depth study is conducted to explore the thermal-mechanical coupling characteristics of storage tanks at various liquid levels. The results indicate that radiation emitted by high-temperature air, confined in the top space of the tank, induces a temperature differential of approximately 5 °C between the tank's roof and the molten salt confined within it. Furthermore, heat loss from the roof accounts for 53 % of the overall heat loss. Thermal stress analysis of each weld seam connecting the tank into an integration reveals that the inner surface experiences tensile stress, while the outer surface undergoes compressive stress, primarily influenced by radial stress. Under the influence of thermal-mechanical, the coupling effect leads to compressive stress in the form of thermal stress, resulting in a decreasing trend in stress on the inner surface of the weld seam. The radial compressive stress on the outer surface reaches approximately 140 MPa, while the tank wall is primarily subjected to circumferential forces. The temperature exerts a negligible impact on the stress of the tank wall, yet it significantly affects its deformation. The stress evaluation of hydrostatic pressure and thermodynamic coupling under different liquid levels is carried out, and the results meet the strength requirements.