R. V. Seeniraj

Bio: R. V. Seeniraj is an academic researcher from Anna University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Heat transfer & Fluidized bed combustion. The author has an hindex of 8, co-authored 12 publications receiving 1123 citations.

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

Abstract: 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 orcharging cycle.

Heat Transfer Enhancement Study of a LHTS Unit Containing Dispersed High Conductivity Particles

Abstract: A theoretical analysis is presented for the performance study of a Latent Heat Thermal Storage (LHTS) system that contains a phase change material (PCM) dispersed with high conductivity particles. The effect of fraction of dispersed particles in the PCM on energy storage time and heat flux is presented for laminar and turbulent flows, and also analytical expressions are presented for various quantities of interest to study the energy storage capabilities. The combined effect of thermal and flow properties of both the heat transfer fluid (HTF) and the PCM-mixture is also included in the study. It is observed that there exists an optimum fraction of particles to be dispersed in the PCM for maximum energy storage/extraction.

A review of materials, heat transfer and phase change problem formulation for latent heat thermal energy storage systems (LHTESS)

Abstract: This paper reviews the development of latent heat thermal energy storage systems studied detailing various phase change materials (PCMs) investigated over the last three decades, the heat transfer and enhancement techniques employed in PCMs to effectively charge and discharge latent heat energy and the formulation of the phase change problem. It also examines the geometry and configurations of PCM containers and a series of numerical and experimental tests undertaken to assess the effects of parameters such as the inlet temperature and the mass flow rate of the heat transfer fluid (HTF). It is concluded that most of the phase change problems have been carried out at temperature ranges between 0 °C and 60 °C suitable for domestic heating applications. In terms of problem formulation, the common approach has been the use of enthalpy formulation. Heat transfer in the phase change problem was previously formulated using pure conduction approach but the problem has moved to a different level of complexity with added convection in the melt being accounted for. There is no standard method (such as British Standards or EU standards) developed to test for PCMs, making it difficult for comparison to be made to assess the suitability of PCMs to particular applications. A unified platform such as British Standards, EU standards needs to be developed to ensure same or similar procedure and analysis (performance curves) to allow comparison and knowledge gained from one test to be applied to another.

Solar energy storage using phase change materials

Abstract: The continuous increase in the level of greenhouse gas emissions and the climb in fuel prices are the main driving forces behind efforts to more effectively utilise various sources of renewable energy. In many parts of the world, direct solar radiation is considered to be one of the most prospective sources of energy. However, the large-scale utilisation of this form of energy is possible only if the effective technology for its storage can be developed with acceptable capital and running costs. One of prospective techniques of storing solar energy is the application of phase change materials (PCMs). Unfortunately, prior to the large-scale practical application of this technology, it is necessary to resolve numerous problems at the research and development stage. This paper looks at the current state of research in this particular field, with the main focus being on the assessment of the thermal properties of various PCMs, methods of heat transfer enhancement and design configurations of heat storage facilities to be used as a part of solar passive and active space heating systems, greenhouses and solar cooking.