Session: 17-01: Poster Presentations

Paper Number: 169934

169934 - Numerical Investigation of Different Pcm Container Geometries for Optimizing Thermal Performance in High-Efficiency Refrigerators. 

Abstract: 

Energy consumption in household refrigerators is largely driven by frequent compressor cycling and thermal losses. Integrating phase change materials (PCMs) into refrigerators provides a passive cooling strategy that enhances energy efficiency by storing and releasing thermal energy during compressor off-cycles. While rectangular PCM containers are common in research, the influence of container geometry on thermal performance has not been thoroughly studied. This work numerically investigates the effect of three PCM container geometries, which are rectangular, curved end, and triangular, on thermal regulation, melting behaviour, and heat absorption in a refrigerator system.

The study uses a 2D transient simulation in ANSYS Fluent. Eutectic solution is selected as the PCM for its high latent heat and suitable melting point, and aluminium is used for the container and internal walls. The simulation applies the melting/solidification model with laminar viscous flow assumptions to model natural convection and phase transition. Each container geometry is exposed to the same boundary conditions, and performance is assessed over a 3001-second cycle to achieve a full melting or near full melting of the PCM materials.

Statistical analysis confirms these differences are significant. One-way ANOVA tests yield p-values of 0.0 for refrigerator temperature, PCM temperature, for liquid fraction, confirming geometry has a substantial effect on thermal behaviour. Despite these differences, correlation analysis reveals that all geometries exhibit similar melting and temperature rise patterns, with correlation coefficients above 0.9 for both PCM temperature, average temperature of the refrigerator, and liquid fraction over time. The most efficient choice was the rectangular geometry, which kept the refrigerator at an average temperature at 287.622K, and with an average liquid fraction volume of 0.4372 compared to the rectangular with curved end geometry which kept the refrigerator at an average temperature at 289.9774K, at an average liquid fraction volume of 0.7051.

Presenting Author: Alfred Koomson Southern University and A & M College

Presenting Author Biography: My name is Alfred Koomson, and I am currently pursuing a Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering at Southern University and A & M College. My research is centered on improving energy efficiency in household refrigeration systems through the application of phase change materials (PCMs). Specifically, I focus on how container geometry influences thermal behavior, melting performance, and temperature regulation within refrigerators. With a strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer, I am passionate about solving real-world challenges through engineering innovation. I see my work as a contribution to the broader effort of creating energy-efficient and environmentally responsible technologies.