Testing phase change energy storage system instruments

Are phase change materials a promising technology for thermal energy storage?

Phase change materials (PCMs) utilized for thermal energy storage applications are verified to be a promising technology due to their larger benefits over other heat storage techniques. Apart from the advantageous thermophysical properties of PCM, the effective utilization of PCM depends on its life span.

How to increase heat exchange power in a PCM storage tank?

Water and paraffin wax was used as the heat transfer fluid and phase change material. The charging duration of PCM revealed a desire to increase the heat exchange surface to increase the heat exchange power. The stratification performance of the storage tank was also analyzed for this study.

Are phase change materials suitable for heating & cooling applications?

The research, design, and development (RD&D) for phase change materials have attracted great interest for both heating and cooling applications due to their considerable environmental-friendly nature and capability of storing a large amount of thermal energy in small volumes as widely studied through experiments [7, 8].

Which type of PCM is best for thermal energy storage?

The stainless steel was found the most resistant and compatible with the majority of the PCMs. Phase change material (PCM) is a vital component of thermal energy storage (TES), particularly at a constant temperature. Various organic, inorganic, eutectic, and composite materials are used for storage applications.

What are composite phase change materials (PCMs)?

Composite PCMs The composite phase change materials (PCMs) are of special interest for thermal engineering applications, as they possess customized thermal properties. These composites are prepared by two techniques i.e. by adding micro/nano sized particles in base PCM and using porous materials.

What is DTE Energy CES testing?

The testing is being performed for DTE Energy as part of the US Department of Energy’s Energy Storage Smart Grid Demonstration Program. The CES consists of a power conditioning system, and a battery energy storage unit. Testing may include basic operation, round-trip efficiency, peak shaving, and frequency regulation.