The effect of whole system rotation on the thermal performance of a phase change energy storage

The research and improvement of latent heat energy storage (LHES) became an attention point since it offers a solution to numerous energy-related issues. Non-uniform melting within the phase change material (PCM) sector is the primary driver for scientists to improve LHES. Here, a solution to this issue is suggested: make the whole shell and tube LHES rotate. The current study looked on how the whole LHES rotation affects its performance. Water is chosen as the heat transfer fluid (HTF) and paraffin wax as the PCM. Three rotational speeds are used for the experiments: 3, 6 and 9 rpm. The results have been then compared to a stationary (zero rpm) condition. The results show that LHES rotation at the higher range of speeds significantly impacts LHES performance. 5 h was enough to melt the PCM completely in case of LHES rotation. On the opposite, in still case, the PCM takes 11 h to melt more than half the amount. Therefore, LHES rotation decreases melting time to about half.