Numerical Investigation of Concentric Cylinder Latent Heat Storage with / without Gravity and Buoyancy

Abstract

Latent Heat Storage is used to balance temporary temperature alternations and storage of energy in several practical application areas. Numerical modelling and analysis of Latent Heat Storage is essential step in designing it for particular application. The present study explores numerically and experimentally the process of melting and solidification of a Phase Change Material in vertical concentric cylindrical unit. Two different cases are considered for analysis; first is without considering gravity and buoyancy effect and second is with considering its effect on PCM. In this analysis melting and solidification time, variation of mushy zone, solid-liquid interface have been studied for both the cases. Commercially available paraffin wax is used as a phase change material. Numerical results have a good agreement with the experimental results. The obtained results can be helpful to study the heat transfer process and designing of Latent Heat base Thermal Energy Storages.