CFD simulation of a solar collector integrated with PCM thermal storage

Thermal energy storage is indeed a valuable solution for addressing the time lag or mismatch between energy supply and demand. The study aims to computationally model the melting and solidification processes of phase change material (PCM) using ANSYS Fluent that utilizes the finite volume technique. The simulations provide insights into the shapes of the liquid fraction, corresponding times, and temperature distribution of the PCM particles under the given conditions. The study considers factors such as solar radiation, thermal conductivity, density, latent heat, and the melting temperature of the PCM. The study finds that paraffin wax melts more quickly under a higher average maximum solar irradiance of 985 W/m2, while a lower solar radiation of 300 W/m2 has the opposite effect. Enhanced heat transfer resulting from conduction within the molten PCM, especially at a thermal conductivity of k = 0.25 W/m·K, accelerates the melting process. The thermal conductivity of the PCM affects the overall performance of the thermal energy storage system. The study highlights the potential application of thermal storage for drying purposes. Through the controlled release of stored heat energy, thermal storage enables the provision of heat in the absence of sunlight.