Thermal analysis of a finned-tube LHTS module for a solar dynamic power system

This paper investigates the transient behaviour of a finned tube latent heat thermal storage (LHTS) module that is put into use in space based power systems, or such similar energy storage applications. The shell side of the module is loaded with phase change material (PCM) while the tubes carry the heat transfer fluid (HTF). Thin circumferential fins are added externally onto the tube surface at equal spacings. The LHTS module is mathematically modeled with an enthalpy based method and the resulting system of conjugate governing equations is numerically solved for charging mode. The influence of various parameters viz. geometrical, thermophysical and various non-dimensional numbers on the performance of the unit is studied. Numerical results indicate an appreciable enhancement in the energy storage process with the addition of fins in the module for an effective utilisation of the available solar energy during the active phase of the orbit or charging cycle.