Thermal performance enhancement of energy storage systems via phase change materials utilising an innovative webbed tube heat exchanger

In this study, the phase change materials (PCM) thermal energy storage system utilizing a novel webbed tube heat exchanger was designed and numerically investigated. The obtained simulation results were then compared with three types of conventional heat exchangers. These included: shell and tube heat exchanger, triplex tube heat exchanger and multi-tube heat exchanger. The proposed innovative webbed tube heat exchanger consisted of four horizontal inner heat transfer fluid tubes contained in a shell. The inner heat transfer fluid tubes were connected together by using metal plates welded to these tubes. The additional plates were designed to increase heat transfer surface area. Two-dimensional numerical models were developed. The process of melting (charging) was monitored during the simulation. The acceleration in melting process in the new design was observed owing to improved thermal conductivness.