Finned-Tube-Integrated Modular Thermal Storage Systems for HVAC Load Modulation in Buildings: Article No. 101704

Ravi Kishore, Allison Mahvi, Ayushman Singh, Jason Woods

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus Citations

Abstract

While there is considerable focus on latent-based thermal energy storage (TES) systems, the low thermal conductivity of phase change materials (PCMs) remains a critical concern. Many approaches to enhance PCM conductivity either require complicated synthesis processes or are cost prohibitive. In this study, we investigate finned-tube modular TES systems, which are simple in design, easy to manufacture, and cost-effective due to their standard materials and components. The study includes detailed modeling and experimentation of two devices containing similar amounts of PCM but different fin spacings. The study reveals that having more fins does not necessarily increase the TES thermal performance because the reduction in the PCM volume fraction can reduce the TES volumetric and specific energy densities. We find that larger fin spacings provide a higher specific energy for lower C rates (<1C), while smaller fin spacings provide a higher specific energy for higher C rates (>1C).
Original languageAmerican English
Number of pages22
JournalCell Reports Physical Science
Volume4
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023

NREL Publication Number

  • NREL/JA-5500-86908

Keywords

  • buildings
  • C rates
  • finned tubes
  • HVAC
  • load modulation
  • PCM
  • phase change materials
  • Ragone plots
  • rate capability
  • thermal storage

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