Proposed TRNSYS Model for Storage Tank with Encapsulated Phase Change Materials

Latent heat storage (LHS) using phase change materials (PCM) is a promising avenue to resolve the frequent timing mismatch between energy supply and demand. This paper deals with the modelling and simulation of a versatile thermal energy storage (TES) tank filled with encapsulated PCMs of rectangular geometry. A simple model is developed and implemented as a TRNSYS component with the long-term goal of selecting optimal phase change temperature and testing control strategies for demand-side management and renewable energy applications. The model uses the enthalpy method and assumes phase change occurs over a small temperature range. A comparison of model results to numerical results found in the literature indicates that it can predict the dynamic performance of this type of thermal energy storage tank with reasonable accuracy during loading and off-loading cycles. A simple example is used to demonstrate the use of the model in TRNSYS. Further work will aim to improve the model and validate it against experimental measurements.