Numerical simulation of NEPCM series two-layer solidification process in a triple tube with porous fin
Somayeh Davoodabadi Farahani, Amir Davoodabadi Farahani, Amirhossein Jazari Mamoei, Amir Mosavi
Abstract
In this paper, the solidification of two-phase change materials (PCM) in a triple tube with porous fins and nanoparticles is investigated. RT35 and RT50 are considered as the PCM. The enthalpy-porosity method is used for simulating the solidification. The effects of the storage chamber geometry, non-Newtonian PCM, placement of PCMs with different melting points in the tubes, porous fins, and nanoparticles on the PCM solidification are evaluated. The results show that the finned triple tube has a better solidification performance than the finned double tube. The solidification rate of PCM is decreased by increasing the radius of the middle tube and decreasing the length of the fins attached to this tube. In the case of applying two PCM layers, the solidification time is decreased using RT35 in the middle tube and RT50 in the outer one. The addition of a nanoparticle, increasing its volume fraction and using porous fins improve the solidification. Decreasing the Darcy number and porosity coefficient also enhances the solidification by 7%–27%. The solidification rate is increased by 37% and 47% using the non-Newtonian PCM and Al2O3 nanoparticles, respectively.