Charging and Discharging Characteristics of Sensible Energy Storage System With Multiple Cylindrical Passages

Abstract

Sensible energy storage systems can be integrated with domestic and industrial systems to fulfill energy needs in the absence of an energy source. The present study experimentally investigates the thermal characteristics of a sensible energy storage system with multiple cylindrical passages during the charging and discharging cycles. Transient temperature distribution, energy storage, energy release, and charging/discharging energy efficiency are evaluated by varying the mass flowrate of air from 0.022 to 0.031 kg/s and inlet air temperature from 45 to 75 °C. The maximum charging energy efficiency of 81.3% was found at 55 °C inlet temperature and 0.031 kg/s of the mass flowrate of air. The maximum discharging energy efficiency is found to be 74.3% corresponding to 45 °C inlet temperature and 0.031 kg/s of the mass flowrate of air.