Thermal performance augmentation in latent heat storage unit using spiral fin: An experimental analysis

摘要

A comprehensive experimental analysis is reported to evaluate the heat transfer augmentation in vertical shell and tube Latent Heat Storage Unit (LHSU) with installation of spiral fins. Influence of spiral fins on charging and discharging rate is evaluated. PCM and HTF used in the existing experimental test setup is stearic acid and water respectively. To obtain accurate PCM temperature in radial, angular and axial direction, total 45 temperature sensors are installed in the annulus of the shell. Simulations have been also performed to track the interface of solid-liquid during charging and discharging. Experimental findings infer that installation of the spiral fins improve melting and solidification time due to the transport of thermal energy in the middle and lower axial planes, which expedites the energy storage/retrieval process. Installation of spiral fins lead to a reduction in the charging and discharging time by 41.48% and 22.16% respectively. The total cycle (charging + discharging) rate is reduced by 31.82% due to installation of spiral fins. Simulation results also depict significant reduction in charging and discharging time.