Session: 03-02: High Temperature Thermal Storage

Paper Number: 131375

131375 - Thermal Energy Storage Conceptual Design Using Reclaimed Minerals As Heat Storage Material 

Abstract: 

Thermal energy storage (TES) plays a crucial role in energy sustainability, enabling the efficient storage and utilization of thermal energy from various sources. In this paper, we propose a novel TES system that utilizes reclaimed minerals as the heat storage medium. The system comprises a tightly packed bed of processed minerals enclosing a circular pathway for heat transfer fluid (HTF). To achieve optimal performance, we develop a computational method and algorithm to estimate the required pipe length for efficient charge and discharge cycles. The analysis encompasses various factors, including pipe length, storage material thickness, tube material, schedule, and contact resistance. Through a systematic examination of these parameters, we propose an algorithmic design for an effective pipe length tailored to the specific requirements of diverse applications in heat storage systems. A significant aspect of the proposed system is its adaptability. The system parameters, such as the temperature and mass flow rate of the HTF, can be modified based on the established effective length of the pipe. This adaptability contributes not only to increased cost-effectiveness but also to diminished energy loss in the overall energy storage system.

The study addresses the trade-off between various parameters and charge and discharge heat transfer rates, recognizing that a longer pipe provides more contact area for energy storage but at the cost of additional containment and storage materials. This nuanced understanding of the relationship between pipe length and heat transfer dynamics enriches the proposed algorithmic design, allowing for a more accurate optimization based on specific application requirements.

The research employs advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling to simulate charge and discharge cycles, incorporating varying scenarios of pipe lengths and system parameters. By evaluating the exit temperatures of the HTF and the average temperature of the storage material at different stages, the study identifies a suitable pipe length that ensures adequate discharge time for the storage material once the cut-off temperature is achieved. This tailored approach aligns with the specific demands of diverse applications, ranging from solar power plants to industrial processes, showcasing the versatility and practicality of the proposed methodology.

In conclusion, this paper represents a contribution to the field of thermal energy storage systems by offering a methodological design framework for designing Thermal Storage Systems that utilize reclaimed minerals as storage medium in solid state. Through investigation into the multifaceted role of geometry of the design, an algorithmic is presented which not only optimizes temperature control and heat transfer rates within the storage material but also provides adaptability for diverse applications, ultimately enhancing cost-effectiveness and reducing energy loss in the broader context of energy storage.

Presenting Author: Ajit Singh Cal Poly Pomona

Presenting Author Biography: Ajit Singh is a graduate student at Cal Poly Pomona

Authors:

Ajit Singh Cal Poly Pomona
Reza Baghaei Lakeh California State Polytechnic University, Pomona