Latent heat storage body and method for manufacturing a latent heat storage body

Abstract

To provide a latent heat storage body capable of improving stability, and a method for manufacturing the latent heat storage body.SOLUTION: A latent heat storage body includes a ceramic part formed of a polycrystalline material and including a closed space formed therein, and a metal part provided inside the closed space and including copper.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a latent heat storage body and a method for manufacturing the latent heat storage body.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, copper has been used as a phase change material (PCM), and a latent heat storage body in which the PCM is surrounded by a protective layer of nickel or chromium has been proposed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Non - Patent Documents

[0004]

Non - Patent Document 1

Non - Patent Document 2

[0005] Latent heat storage bodies are used at high temperatures. In conventional latent heat storage bodies where the PCM is surrounded by a nickel or chromium protective layer, the protective layer deteriorates during use. For example, if an oxidizing gas such as air is used as the heat transfer medium, the protective layer will oxidize. In particular, if impurities such as inorganic salts are present in the operating environment, oxidation is more likely to occur. Deterioration of the protective layer may shorten the lifespan of the latent heat storage body.

[0006] This disclosure aims to provide a latent heat storage body and a method for manufacturing a latent heat storage body that can improve stability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a ceramic part made of a polycrystalline material in which a closed space is formed, and a metal part containing copper provided within the closed space are provided. The ceramic part has a cylindrical shape with an inner wall surface and an outer wall surface, and the closed space and the metal part have a helical shape along the inner wall surface and the outer wall surface. A latent heat storage body is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the disclosed technology, stability can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure illustrates a latent heat storage body according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure illustrates a method for manufacturing a latent heat storage body according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure illustrates a latent heat storage body according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure illustrates a latent heat storage body according to the third embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure illustrates a method for manufacturing a latent heat storage body according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6]It is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a latent heat storage body according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the arrangement of through holes and metal parts in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a diagram illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a perspective view showing the metal parts included in the latent heat storage body according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a perspective view showing the metal parts included in the latent heat storage body according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the first modification of the eighth embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the second modification of the eighth embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a diagram illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the ninth embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a diagram illustrating a method of using the latent heat storage body according to the ninth embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a perspective view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the tenth embodiment. [Figure 20] It is a diagram illustrating a method of using the latent heat storage body according to the tenth embodiment. [Figure 21] It is a perspective cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 22] It is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 23] It is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the first modification of the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 24]This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to a second modified example of the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 25] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the 13th embodiment. [Figure 26] This figure illustrates a method of using a latent heat storage body according to the 13th embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. In this specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration will be denoted by the same reference numerals to avoid redundant descriptions.

[0011] (First Embodiment) A first embodiment will be described. The first embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the first embodiment. Figure 1(a) is a perspective view, and Figure 1(b) is a cross-sectional view.

[0012] As shown in Figures 1(a) and 1(b), the latent heat storage body 1 according to the first embodiment has a ceramic portion 110 made of polycrystalline material and a metal portion 120.

[0013] A closed space 111 is formed in the ceramic part 110. The shape of the ceramic part 110 and the closed space 111 is a rectangular parallelepiped. The ceramic part 110 is, for example, constructed integrally. For example, the ceramic part 110 does not have a joint that connects to the closed space 111. The ceramic part 110 contains, for example, aluminum oxide in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, mullite in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, aluminum nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more, or a mixture of aluminum nitride and boron nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more. In other words, the ceramic part 110 may be composed of aluminum oxide with a purity of 90% by mass or more, mullite with a purity of 90% by mass or more, aluminum nitride with a purity of 95% by mass or more, or a mixture of aluminum nitride and boron nitride with a purity of 95% by mass or more.

[0014] The metal part 120 is located within the enclosed space 111. In other words, the metal part 120 is sealed within the ceramic part 110. It can also be said that the metal part 120 is hermetically covered by the continuous ceramic part 110. The metal part 120 contains copper. For example, the main component of the metal part 120 is copper. The metal part 120 contains copper in a proportion of, for example, 99% by mass or more. That is, the metal part 120 may be composed of copper with a purity of 99% by mass or more.

[0015] The volume of the closed space 111 is preferably larger than the volume of the metal part 120. This is because, as described later, when the latent heat storage body 1 is used, the metal part 120 undergoes a phase change from solid to liquid, and the metal part 120 expands during this phase change. Furthermore, if the main component of the metal part 120 is copper, the metal part 120 expands by approximately 12% by volume during the phase change. Therefore, at 25°C, it is more preferable that the volume of the closed space 111 is 112% or more of the volume of the metal part 120. Note that if the volume of the closed space 111 is excessively large compared to the volume of the metal part 120, not only will the ceramic part 110 become unnecessarily large, but the thermal resistance between the ceramic part 110 and the metal part 120 will also increase. Therefore, at 25°C, it is more preferable that the volume of the closed space 111 is 120% or less of the volume of the metal part 120. If the main component of the metal part 120 is copper, the metal part 120 will expand at a rate of approximately 17 ppm / °C from a temperature of 25°C until it reaches its melting point. However, with this level of thermal expansion, the ceramic part 110 can withstand the thermal stress.

[0016] If the volume of the closed space 111 is greater than the volume of the metal part 120, a gap exists between the surface of the metal part 120 and the inner surface of the closed space 111. This gap may exist in only one place or in multiple places.

[0017] The melting point of copper is 1084.5°C. When the main component of the metal part 120 is copper, a phase change between solid and liquid occurs at approximately 1084.5°C. At this temperature, the ceramic part 110, which is made of polycrystalline material, is chemically stable. Therefore, whether the metal part 120 is solid or liquid, the ceramic part 110 can confine the metal part 120 within the closed space 111. Furthermore, even when used at high temperatures, the ceramic part 110 is less susceptible to chemical changes such as oxidation.

[0018] With the latent heat storage body 1, the metal part 120 functions as a phase change material (PCM), thus achieving high thermal conductivity. Furthermore, even when used at high temperatures, the ceramic part 110 is less prone to oxidation or other deterioration. Therefore, stability can be improved. As a result, oxidizing agents such as air can also be used as the heat transfer medium, expanding the range of heat transfer medium options.

[0019] Furthermore, the surface of the latent heat storage body 1 can be easily cleaned. For example, if the heat transfer medium is exhaust gas from a combustion furnace containing unburned components, the heat transfer medium may contain substances that easily adhere to the latent heat storage body 1, such as soot. The adhesion of such substances may lead to a decrease in thermal conductivity and an increase in flow resistance. In contrast, with the latent heat storage body 1, the adhered substances can be easily removed by high-temperature treatment in the atmosphere. If the adhered substances are non-organic, they can also be removed by acid cleaning or the like.

[0020] Next, a method for manufacturing the latent heat storage body 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing the latent heat storage body 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2(a) is a perspective view, and Figure 2(b) is a cross-sectional view.

[0021] First, as shown in Figures 2(a) and 2(b), a composite 1A is prepared, having an unfired ceramic part 130 and a metal part 140. The metal part 140 is covered by the ceramic part 130. Later, the ceramic part 130 becomes the ceramic part 110, and the metal part 140 becomes the metal part 120.

[0022] The ceramic portion 130 is, for example, a green sheet laminate, a slip-cast body, a gel-cast body, or a cold isostatic pressing (CIP) molded body after pre-forming of granulated powder, which contains the material of the ceramic portion 110. The ceramic portion 130 contains, for example, aluminum oxide in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, mullite in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, aluminum nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more, or a mixture of aluminum nitride and boron nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more. The ceramic portion 130 may further contain sintering aids, etc. Examples of sintering aids include silicon, magnesium, and calcium. The particle size of the ceramic grains contained in the ceramic portion 130 is preferably 1 μm or less, and more preferably 0.3 μm or less.

[0023] The metal part 140 is, for example, a CIP molded body obtained after pre-molding a wire, column, paste, slip-cast body, gel-cast body, or granulated powder containing copper. The metal part 140 contains copper in a proportion of, for example, 99% by mass or more.

[0024] A closed space 131 is formed in the ceramic part 130, and the metal part 260 is provided within the closed space 131. The volume of the closed space 131 is larger than the volume of the metal part 140, and a gap exists between the surface of the metal part 140 and the inner surface of the closed space 131.

[0025] Next, the ceramic part 130 and the metal part 140 are fired simultaneously. As a result, the ceramic part 110 is formed from the ceramic part 130, and the metal part 120 is formed from the metal part 140 (see Figures 1(a) and 1(b)). At this time, the porous ceramic part 130 becomes densified, and the relative density of the polycrystalline ceramic part 110 becomes about 95% to 99%. On the other hand, the metal part 140 hardly becomes densified, and the relative density of the metal part 120 becomes almost 100%. Therefore, it is preferable to determine the relative densities of the ceramic part 130 and the metal part 140 by taking into account the difference in the change in relative density due to firing. In this disclosure, even if no changes in components or properties other than phase change occur in the metal part during the firing of the ceramic part, the metal part is fired, and they are fired simultaneously. Furthermore, relative density refers to the density relative to the density in a solid bulk state. In other words, relative density refers to the ratio of the density of a comparison object to the density in a state where there are no voids or defects at all.

[0026] The temperature for simultaneous firing shall be, for example, 100°C to 900°C higher than the melting point of the metal part 140. The heating rate during simultaneous firing shall be, for example, 5°C / min to 15°C / min. The atmosphere for simultaneous firing may be either a reducing atmosphere containing a reducing gas such as hydrogen, or a non-oxidizing atmosphere containing a non-oxidizing gas such as nitrogen.

[0027] In this way, the latent heat storage body 1 according to the first embodiment can be manufactured.

[0028] When the ceramic part 130 contains aluminum oxide in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, mullite in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, aluminum nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more, or a mixture of aluminum nitride and boron nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "having a predetermined composition"), the reaction between the material of the ceramic part 130 and the material of the metal part 140 during the simultaneous firing of the ceramic part 130 and the metal part 140 is particularly easy to suppress.

[0029] Furthermore, if the ceramic part 130 has a predetermined composition, it is particularly easy to suppress the penetration of the molten metal part 140 into the ceramic part 130. For example, the melting point of the metal part 140 is lower than the temperature at which densification of the ceramic part 130 occurs, so the metal part 140 melts before densification of the ceramic part 130 occurs. If the molten metal part 140 penetrates the ceramic part 130 before densification, the densification of the ceramic part 130 may be inhibited, preventing the formation of a closed space 111, or the metal part 140 may flow out of the ceramic part 130. If the ceramic part 130 has a predetermined composition, it is particularly easy to suppress such phenomena.

[0030] Furthermore, if the ceramic part 130 has a predetermined composition, even if a portion of the molten metal part 140 evaporates, the penetration of the evaporated components into the ceramic part 130 is particularly easy to suppress. When the metal part 140 melts, a portion of it evaporates within the closed space 131. If the evaporated components penetrate the ceramic part 130 before densification, the densification of the ceramic part 130 may be inhibited, preventing the formation of the closed space 111, or the evaporated components may diffuse to the outside of the ceramic part 130. If the ceramic part 130 has a predetermined composition, such phenomena are particularly easy to suppress.

[0031] Furthermore, in order to make the volume of the closed space 111 larger than the volume of the metal part 120, for example, if the metal part 140 is a paste, slip-cast body, gel-cast body, or CIP molded body, it is preferable to adjust the relative density of the metal part 140 to be low before firing. Also, in order to make the volume of the closed space 111 larger than the volume of the metal part 120, for example, if the metal part 140 is a wire or column, it is preferable to provide an organic component that disappears during firing on the surface of the wire or column. Suitable organic components include ethylcellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl butyral, and polymethacrylate. The temperature at which densification of the ceramic part 130 occurs is higher than the temperature at which the organic component disappears and the melting point of the metal part 140, so the densification of the ceramic part 130 is not inhibited.

[0032] To improve the heat exchange efficiency between the metal part 120 and the heat transfer medium, it is preferable that the ceramic part 110 be thin. On the other hand, during co-firing, the molten metal part 140 tends to become spherical, so force may be applied from the molten metal part 140 to the ceramic part 130. Therefore, if the ceramic part 130 is thin, there is a risk that the ceramic part 130 will deform. To prevent deformation of the ceramic part 130, it is preferable to apply titanium oxide powder to the surface of the metal part 140 before co-firing. The titanium oxide powder can be, for example, a paste or mixed into an organic component. The titanium oxide may be either anatase or rutile. During co-firing, the titanium contained in the titanium oxide interposes mainly between the surface of the metal part 140 and the inner surface of the ceramic part 130, suppressing deformation (spheroidization) of the metal part 140. In the latent heat storage body 1 manufactured through co-firing, titanium is present between the metal part 120 and the ceramic part 110. The mass of titanium is, for example, more than 0% and less than or equal to 10% of the mass of the metal part 120.

[0033] (Second Embodiment) A second embodiment will now be described. The second embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the second embodiment. Figure 3(a) is a perspective view, and Figure 3(b) is a cross-sectional view.

[0034] As shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b), the latent heat storage body 2 according to the second embodiment has a ceramic portion 210 made of polycrystalline material and a metal portion 220.

[0035] A closed space 211 is formed in the ceramic part 210. The shape of the ceramic part 210 and the closed space 211 is cylindrical. The ceramic part 210 is, for example, constructed integrally. For example, there is no joint connecting the ceramic part 210 to the closed space 211. The ceramic part 210 is made of the same material as the ceramic part 110.

[0036] The metal part 220 is located within the enclosed space 211. In other words, the metal part 220 is sealed within the ceramic part 210. It can also be said that the metal part 220 is airtightly covered by the continuous ceramic part 210. The metal part 220 is made of the same material as the metal part 120.

[0037] The volume of the closed space 211 is preferably larger than the volume of the metal part 220. If the volume of the closed space 211 is larger than the volume of the metal part 220, a gap exists between the surface of the metal part 220 and the inner surface of the closed space 211, although this is not shown in Figure 3(a). The gap between the surface of the metal part 220 and the inner surface of the closed space 211 may exist in only one place or in multiple places.

[0038] Other components are the same as in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the latent heat storage body 2 according to the second embodiment can be manufactured in the same manner as in the first embodiment, except for its shape.

[0039] The second embodiment can achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, since external stress on the ceramic part 210 is more easily distributed, higher durability can be obtained.

[0040] The latent heat storage body may also be spherical, prismatic, or in any other shape.

[0041] (Third embodiment) A third embodiment will now be described. The third embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the third embodiment. Figure 4(a) is a perspective view, and Figure 4(b) is a cross-sectional view.

[0042] As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), the latent heat storage body 3 according to the third embodiment has a ceramic portion 310 made of polycrystalline material and a plurality of metal portions 320.

[0043] Multiple closed spaces 311 are formed in the ceramic portion 310. The shape of the ceramic portion 310 and the closed spaces 311 is a rectangular parallelepiped. The ceramic portion 310 is, for example, constructed integrally. For example, there are no joints connecting the ceramic portion 310 to the closed spaces 311. The ceramic portion 310 is made of the same material as the ceramic portion 110. The closed spaces 311 are arranged at equal intervals in two mutually orthogonal directions within a plane parallel to a pair of mutually parallel planes of the ceramic portion 310.

[0044] Each metal part 320 is provided individually within the enclosed space 311. In other words, the metal parts 320 are sealed within the ceramic parts 310. It can also be said that the metal parts 320 are airtightly covered by the continuous ceramic parts 310. The metal parts 320 are made of the same material as the metal parts 120.

[0045] The volume of the closed space 311 is preferably larger than the volume of the metal part 320. If the volume of the closed space 311 is larger than the volume of the metal part 320, a gap exists between the surface of the metal part 320 and the inner surface of the closed space 311, although this is not shown in Figure 4(a). The gap between the surface of the metal part 320 and the inner surface of the closed space 311 may exist in only one place or in multiple places.

[0046] The other configurations are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0047] Next, a method for manufacturing the latent heat storage body 3 according to the third embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing the latent heat storage body 3 according to the third embodiment.

[0048] First, as shown in Figure 5(a), an unfired ceramic part 350A is prepared, in which multiple cavities 351 forming a closed space 311 are created. The ceramic part 350A is, for example, a laminate of green sheets. The ceramic part 350A may also be formed by injection molding or the like. Later, the ceramic part 350A becomes part of the ceramic part 310.

[0049] Next, as shown in Figure 5(b), a metal part 360 is provided in each cavity 351. Later, the metal part 360 becomes the metal part 320. The metal part 360 is, for example, a paste, beads, a winding, or a sheet.

[0050] Next, as shown in Figure 5(b), a sheet-like ceramic portion 350B is placed on top of the ceramic portion 350A so as to close the open end of the cavity 351. Later, the ceramic portion 350B becomes part of the ceramic portion 310.

[0051] In this way, as shown in Figure 5(c), a composite 3A is obtained having unfired ceramic parts 350A and 350B and a metal part 360.

[0052] Next, the ceramic parts 350A and 350B and the metal part 360 are fired simultaneously. As a result, the ceramic part 310 is formed from the ceramic parts 350A and 350B, and the metal part 320 is formed from the metal part 360 (see Figures 4(a) and 4(b)).

[0053] In this way, the latent heat storage body 3 according to the third embodiment can be manufactured.

[0054] The same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained with the third embodiment as well.

[0055] Furthermore, the composite 3A may be divided into metal parts 360 before firing. In this case, the latent heat storage body 1 according to the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0056] A latent heat storage body 2 according to the second embodiment can also be obtained by a similar method. Figure 6 shows a method for manufacturing the latent heat storage body 2 according to the second embodiment.

[0057] First, as shown in Figure 6(a), an unfired ceramic part 250A is prepared in which multiple cavities 251 forming a closed space 211 are created.

[0058] Next, as shown in Figure 6(b), a metal part 260 is provided inside each cavity 251.

[0059] Next, as shown in Figure 6(c), a composite 2A is obtained by placing a sheet-like ceramic portion 250B on top of the ceramic portion 250A so as to close the open end of the cavity 251.

[0060] Next, the composite 2A is divided into metal parts 260. Then, the ceramic parts 250A and 250B and the metal parts 260 are fired simultaneously.

[0061] The latent heat storage body 2 according to the second embodiment can also be manufactured by this method.

[0062] Furthermore, the composite material for manufacturing the latent heat storage body may be manufactured by methods such as a ceramic slurry dip coating method.

[0063] (Fourth Embodiment) A fourth embodiment will now be described. The fourth embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the fourth embodiment.

[0064] As shown in Figure 7, the latent heat storage body 4 according to the fourth embodiment has a ceramic portion 410 made of polycrystalline material and a metal portion 420.

[0065] The ceramic part 410 has a cylindrical shape with a through hole 414. The ceramic part 410 may also have a rectangular tube shape with a through hole 414. The ceramic part 410 has a cylindrical shape with an inner wall surface 412 and an outer wall surface 413. A closed space 411 is formed in the ceramic part 410. The closed space 411 has a helical shape along the inner wall surface 412 and the outer wall surface 413. The ceramic part 410 is constructed, for example, as a single unit. For example, the ceramic part 410 does not have a joint that connects to the closed space 411. The ceramic part 410 is made of the same material as the ceramic part 110.

[0066] The metal part 420 is located within the enclosed space 411. In other words, the metal part 420 is sealed within the ceramic part 410. It can also be said that the metal part 420 is airtightly covered by the continuous ceramic part 410. The metal part 420 has a helical shape along the inner wall surface 412 and the outer wall surface 413. The metal part 420 is made of the same material as the metal part 120.

[0067] The volume of the closed space 411 is preferably larger than the volume of the metal part 420. If the volume of the closed space 411 is larger than the volume of the metal part 420, a gap exists between the surface of the metal part 420 and the inner surface of the closed space 411, although this is not shown in Figure 7. The gap between the surface of the metal part 420 and the inner surface of the closed space 411 may exist in only one place or in multiple places.

[0068] Other components are the same as in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the latent heat storage body 4 according to the fourth embodiment can be manufactured in the same manner as in the first embodiment, except for its shape.

[0069] The same effects as the first embodiment can be obtained with the fourth embodiment. In addition, the through-hole 414 can be used as a flow path for the heat transfer medium. In this case, it is easier to stabilize the flow rate and velocity of the heat transfer medium.

[0070] (Fifth embodiment) A fifth embodiment will now be described. The fifth embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 8 is a perspective view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the fifth embodiment.

[0071] As shown in Figure 8, the latent heat storage body 5 according to the fifth embodiment has a ceramic portion 510 made of polycrystalline material and a metal portion 520.

[0072] Multiple closed spaces 511 are formed in the ceramic part 510. The shape of the ceramic part 510 is approximately a rectangular parallelepiped. Multiple through holes 514 extending in a first direction are formed in the ceramic part 510. The first direction is perpendicular to a pair of mutually parallel planes of the ceramic part 510. The shape of the closed spaces 511 is cylindrical. The multiple closed spaces 511 extend in the first direction. The closed spaces 511 are located near the through holes 514. The ceramic part 510 is constructed, for example, as a single unit. For example, there are no joints in the ceramic part 510 that connect to the closed spaces 511. The ceramic part 510 is made of the same material as the ceramic part 110.

[0073] Each metal part 520 is provided individually within the enclosed space 511. In other words, the metal parts 520 are sealed within the ceramic parts 510. It can also be said that the metal parts 520 are airtightly covered by the continuous ceramic parts 510. The metal parts 520 have a columnar shape parallel to the first direction. The metal parts 520 are made of the same material as the metal parts 120.

[0074] The volume of the closed space 511 is preferably larger than the volume of the metal part 520. If the volume of the closed space 511 is larger than the volume of the metal part 520, a gap exists between the surface of the metal part 520 and the inner surface of the closed space 511, although this is not shown in Figure 8. The gap between the surface of the metal part 520 and the inner surface of the closed space 511 may exist in only one place or in multiple places.

[0075] Other components are the same as in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the latent heat storage body 5 according to the fifth embodiment can be manufactured in the same manner as in the first embodiment, except for its shape.

[0076] The same effects as the first embodiment can be obtained with the fifth embodiment. In addition, multiple through holes 514 can be used as flow paths for the heat transfer medium. In this case, it is easier to stabilize the flow rate and flow velocity of the heat transfer medium.

[0077] Here, an example of the arrangement of the through-hole 514 and the metal part 520 will be described. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the arrangement of the through-hole 514 and the metal part 520 in the fifth embodiment.

[0078] In the example shown in Figure 9(a), the through holes 514 and metal parts 520 are arranged alternately along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Furthermore, when viewed from the first direction, the through holes 514 and metal parts 520 form a triangular grid.

[0079] In the example shown in Figure 9(b), through holes 514 and pairs of metal parts 520 are arranged alternately along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. When viewed from the first direction, the through holes 514 and metal parts 520 form a triangular grid. Each through hole 514 is surrounded by six metal parts 520.

[0080] (Sixth Embodiment) A sixth embodiment will now be described. The sixth embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 10(a) is a perspective view, and Figure 10(b) is a cross-sectional view. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the metal part included in the latent heat storage body according to the sixth embodiment.

[0081] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the latent heat storage body 6 according to the sixth embodiment has a ceramic portion 610 made of polycrystalline material and a metal portion 620.

[0082] A closed space 611 is formed in the ceramic part 610. The shape of the ceramic part 610 is approximately a rectangular parallelepiped. Multiple through holes 614 extending in a first direction are formed in the ceramic part 610. The first direction is perpendicular to a pair of mutually parallel planes of the ceramic part 610. The through holes 614 are arranged at equal intervals in two directions perpendicular to the first direction (one in a second direction and the other in a third direction). The closed space 611 has a bellows shape extending in a second direction. The closed space 611 is formed so as to weave between the regularly arranged through holes 614. The closed space 611 has a portion extending in a second direction and a portion extending in a third direction, and the portions extending in the second direction and the portions extending in the third direction are alternately connected. Multiple closed spaces 611 are formed side by side in the first direction. Adjacent closed spaces 611 in the first direction may be connected to each other. The ceramic part 610 is constructed, for example, as a single unit. For example, the ceramic part 610 does not have a joint that connects to the closed space 611. The ceramic part 610 is made of the same material as the ceramic part 110.

[0083] The metal part 620 is provided within the closed space 611. In other words, the metal part 620 is sealed within the ceramic part 610. It can also be said that the metal part 620 is airtightly covered by the continuous ceramic part 610. The metal part 620 has a bellows shape extending in a second direction. The metal part 620 is provided so as to weave between regularly arranged through holes 614. The metal part 620 has a portion extending in a second direction and a portion extending in a third direction, with the portions extending in the second direction and the portions extending in the third direction being alternately connected. Multiple metal parts 620 are provided side by side in a first direction. Adjacent metal parts 620 in the first direction may be connected to each other.

[0084] The volume of the closed space 611 is preferably larger than the volume of the metal part 620. If the volume of the closed space 611 is larger than the volume of the metal part 620, a gap exists between the surface of the metal part 620 and the inner surface of the closed space 611, although this is not shown in Figure 10. The gap between the surface of the metal part 620 and the inner surface of the closed space 611 may exist in only one place or in multiple places.

[0085] Other components are the same as in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the latent heat storage body 6 according to the sixth embodiment can be manufactured in the same manner as in the first embodiment, except for its shape.

[0086] The same effects as the first embodiment can be obtained with the sixth embodiment. In addition, multiple through holes 614 can be used as flow paths for the heat transfer medium. In this case, it is easier to stabilize the flow rate and flow velocity of the heat transfer medium.

[0087] (Seventh Embodiment) A seventh embodiment will now be described. The seventh embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 12(a) is a perspective view, and Figure 12(b) is a cross-sectional view. Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the metal parts included in the latent heat storage body according to the seventh embodiment.

[0088] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the latent heat storage body 7 according to the seventh embodiment has a ceramic portion 710 made of polycrystalline material and a metal portion 720.

[0089] A closed space 711 is formed in the ceramic part 710. The shape of the ceramic part 710 is approximately a rectangular parallelepiped. Multiple through holes 714 extending in a first direction are formed in the ceramic part 710. The first direction is perpendicular to a pair of mutually parallel planes of the ceramic part 710. The through holes 714 are arranged at equal intervals in two directions perpendicular to the first direction (one is the second direction and the other is the third direction). The closed space 711 has a bellows shape extending in the first direction. The closed space 711 is formed between adjacent virtual planes 715 in the second direction, assuming multiple virtual planes 715 where multiple adjacent through holes 714 are aligned in the third direction. The closed space 711 has a portion extending in the first direction and a portion extending in the third direction, and the portions extending in the first direction and the portions extending in the third direction are alternately connected. Multiple closed spaces 711 are formed side by side in the second direction. Adjacent closed spaces 711 in the second direction may be connected to each other. The ceramic part 710 is, for example, constructed integrally. For example, the ceramic part 710 does not have any joints that connect to the closed spaces 711. The ceramic part 710 is made of the same material as the ceramic part 110.

[0090] The metal part 720 is provided within the closed space 711. In other words, the metal part 720 is sealed within the ceramic part 710. It can also be said that the metal part 720 is airtightly covered by the continuous ceramic part 710. The metal part 720 has a bellows shape extending in a first direction. The metal part 720 is provided between adjacent virtual planes 715 in a second direction. The metal part 720 has a portion extending in a first direction and a portion extending in a third direction, with the portions extending in the first direction and the portions extending in the third direction being alternately connected. Multiple metal parts 720 are provided side by side in the second direction. Adjacent metal parts 720 in the second direction may be connected to each other.

[0091] The volume of the closed space 711 is preferably larger than the volume of the metal part 720. If the volume of the closed space 711 is larger than the volume of the metal part 720, a gap exists between the surface of the metal part 720 and the inner surface of the closed space 711, although this is not shown in Figure 12. The gap between the surface of the metal part 720 and the inner surface of the closed space 711 may exist in only one place or in multiple places.

[0092] Other components are the same as in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the latent heat storage body 7 according to the seventh embodiment can be manufactured in the same manner as in the first embodiment, except for its shape.

[0093] The same effects as the first embodiment can be obtained with the seventh embodiment. In addition, multiple through holes 714 can be used as flow paths for the heat transfer medium. In this case, it is easier to stabilize the flow rate and flow velocity of the heat transfer medium.

[0094] (Eighth embodiment) An eighth embodiment will now be described. The eighth embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the eighth embodiment.

[0095] As shown in Figure 14, the latent heat storage body 8 according to the eighth embodiment has a ceramic part 110 made of polycrystalline material, a metal part 120, and an electric heating element 830 that can heat the metal part 120.

[0096] The heating element 830 is provided within the ceramic part 110. The heating element 830 is provided, for example, near one of the largest pair of surfaces of the metal part 120. The heating element 830 contains, for example, a mixture of tungsten and aluminum oxide, or a mixture of molybdenum and aluminum oxide. In this case, the heating element 830 may further contain one or more of silicon oxide, magnesium oxide, calcium carbonate, etc. The heating element 830 is an example of a heater.

[0097] The other configurations are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0098] In manufacturing the latent heat storage body 8 according to the eighth embodiment, for example, tungsten or molybdenum powder is mixed with aluminum oxide powder, and organic components such as solvents and binders are added to prepare a paste, and a paste portion for the heating element with the shape of the heating element 830 is formed by screen printing or the like. Then, the paste portion for the heating element is fired simultaneously with the ceramic portion 130 and the metal portion 140 in a neutral or reducing atmosphere. The resistivity of the heating element 830 can be adjusted according to the amount of aluminum oxide. One or more of the following may be added to the paste: silicon oxide, magnesium oxide, calcium carbonate, etc. These inorganic components form a liquid phase or a composite oxide phase during firing, which can improve the adhesion strength of the heating element 830 to the ceramic portion 130 and improve the stability of the resistivity.

[0099] The same effects as the first embodiment can be obtained with the eighth embodiment. Furthermore, since the electric heating element 830 can heat the metal part 120, the electrical energy supplied from the outside can be converted into heat and stored in the latent heat storage body 8. For example, by generating heat from the electric heating element 830 using surplus electricity, surplus electricity can be stored as heat. The energy stored in the latent heat storage body 8 can then be supplied to factories, offices, commercial buildings, etc., as energy in the form of heat, steam (pressure), or electricity (such as turbine power generation using steam pressure).

[0100] Furthermore, since the latent heat storage body 8 includes the electric heating element 830, energy loss can be reduced. For example, if the electric heating element and the latent heat storage body are separated, the heat generated from the electric heating element is transferred to the latent heat storage body as hot air, etc., and energy is easily lost. However, in this embodiment, such energy loss can be suppressed.

[0101] Furthermore, the resistivity of the heating element 830 can be adjusted not only by adjusting the aluminum oxide content, but also by adjusting the cross-sectional area and length of the heating element 830.

[0102] (First modified example of the eighth embodiment) A first modified example of the eighth embodiment will now be described. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the first modified example of the eighth embodiment.

[0103] The latent heat storage body 8A according to the first modified example of the eighth embodiment, as shown in Figure 15, has a ceramic portion 110 made of polycrystalline material, a metal portion 120, and two electric heating elements 830 that can heat the metal portion 120. One electric heating element 830 is provided near one of the largest pair of surfaces of the metal portion 120, and the other electric heating element 830 is provided near the other of the largest pair of surfaces of the metal portion 120.

[0104] The other configurations are the same as in the eighth embodiment.

[0105] The same effects as in the eighth embodiment can be obtained by the first modification of the eighth embodiment. Furthermore, according to the first modification of the eighth embodiment, the metal part 120 is easier to heat.

[0106] (Second modified example of the eighth embodiment) A second modification of the eighth embodiment will now be described. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the second modification of the eighth embodiment.

[0107] In the latent heat storage body 8B according to the second modification of the eighth embodiment, as shown in Figure 16, the heating element 830 is provided on the surface of the ceramic part 110. The heating element 830 is provided, for example, near one of the largest pair of surfaces of the metal part 120. The heating element 830 contains, for example, molybdenum disilide, ruthenium oxide, nickel-chromium alloy, or silver-palladium alloy. In this case, the heating element 830 may further contain glass.

[0108] The other configurations are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0109] In manufacturing the latent heat storage body 8B according to the second modification of the eighth embodiment, for example, after simultaneously firing the ceramic part 130 and the metal part 140, a paste is prepared by adding organic components such as solvents and binders to molybdenum disilicide, ruthenium oxide, nickel-chromium alloy, or silver-palladium alloy, and a paste portion for the heating element with the shape of the heating element 830 is formed by screen printing or the like. Then, the paste portion for the heating element is fired. This firing may be carried out in an oxidizing atmosphere such as an atmospheric atmosphere. Glass may be added to the paste portion for the heating element. Platinum may be used as the material for the heating element 830, or the same material as in the eighth embodiment may be used.

[0110] Furthermore, two heating elements 830 may be provided on two surfaces of the ceramic part 110. For example, one heating element 830 may be provided near one of the largest pair of surfaces of the metal part 120, and the other heating element 830 may be provided near the other of the largest pair of surfaces of the metal part 120.

[0111] (Ninth Embodiment) A ninth embodiment will now be described. The ninth embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the ninth embodiment. Figure 17(a) is a perspective view, and Figure 17(b) is a cross-sectional view.

[0112] As shown in Figures 17(a) and 17(b), the latent heat storage body 9 according to the ninth embodiment has a ceramic part 110 made of polycrystalline material, a metal part 120, and an electric heating element 930 that can heat the metal part 120.

[0113] The heating element 930 is located within the ceramic part 110. The heating element 930 is located, for example, near one of the largest pairs of surfaces of the metal part 120. The heating element 930 is arranged in a bellows-like manner. The heating element 930 is made of the same material as the heating element 830. The heating element 930 is an example of a heater.

[0114] The other components are the same as in the eighth embodiment. Furthermore, the latent heat storage body 9 according to the ninth embodiment can be manufactured in the same manner as in the eighth embodiment, except for its shape.

[0115] The ninth embodiment can also achieve the same effects as the eighth embodiment. Furthermore, because the heating element 930 is arranged in a bellows-like shape, a larger amount of heat can be obtained.

[0116] Here, an example of how to use the latent heat storage body 9 according to the ninth embodiment will be described. Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating how to use the latent heat storage body 9 according to the ninth embodiment. Figure 18(a) is a perspective view, and Figure 18(b) is a top view.

[0117] In this example, as shown in Figures 18(a) and 18(b), multiple latent heat storage bodies 9 having the same shape are used. The multiple latent heat storage bodies 9 are arranged in a line, and the largest surfaces of adjacent latent heat storage bodies 9 face each other.

[0118] During heat storage, the electric heating element 930 generates heat, melting the metal part 120. When utilizing the heat stored in the latent heat storage body 9, as shown in Figures 18(a) and 18(b), a heat transfer medium 960, which is at a lower temperature than the melting point of the metal part 120, is supplied to the latent heat storage body 9. The heat transfer medium 960 is heated by the latent heat storage body 9 and moves away from the latent heat storage body 9 with greater thermal energy than when it was supplied. In this way, thermal energy can be transferred to the heat transfer medium 960.

[0119] (Tenth embodiment) A tenth embodiment will now be described. The tenth embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 19 is a perspective view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the tenth embodiment.

[0120] The latent heat storage body 10 according to the tenth embodiment, as shown in Figure 19, has a ceramic part 210 made of polycrystalline material, a metal part 220, and an electric heating element 1030 that can heat the metal part 220. The electric heating element 1030 is provided between the surface of the ceramic part 210 and the surface of the metal part 220. The electric heating element 1030 has a substantially cylindrical shape. When viewed from a direction parallel to the long axis of the columnar metal part 220, the electric heating element 1030 forms a spiral, for example, by alternately rotating clockwise and counterclockwise. The electric heating element 1030 is made of the same material as the electric heating element 830. The electric heating element 1030 is an example of a heater.

[0121] Other configurations are the same as in the eighth embodiment. Furthermore, the latent heat storage body 10 according to the tenth embodiment can be manufactured in a manner generally the same as in the eighth embodiment, except for its shape. The portion of the metal part 220 of the heating element 1030 perpendicular to the long axis (circumferential portion) can be formed, for example, by a resistor paste printed on the surface of a ceramic green sheet. The portion of the metal part 220 of the heating element 1030 extending parallel to the long axis can be formed, for example, by a resistor paste filled into through holes formed in a ceramic green sheet.

[0122] The ninth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the eighth embodiment. Furthermore, because the heating element 1030 is formed in a spiral shape, a larger amount of heat can be obtained.

[0123] Furthermore, the ceramic part 210 and the metal part 220 may be prismatic in shape, and the heating element 1030 may have a roughly rectangular cylindrical shape.

[0124] Here, an example of how to use the latent heat storage body 10 according to the 10th embodiment will be described. Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating how to use the latent heat storage body according to the 10th embodiment.

[0125] In this example, as shown in Figure 20, multiple latent heat storage bodies 10 having the same shape are used. The multiple latent heat storage bodies 10 are arranged in a plane parallel to the bottom surface of the ceramic portion 210.

[0126] During heat storage, the electric heating element 1030 generates heat, melting the metal part 120. When utilizing the heat stored in the latent heat storage body 10, as shown in Figure 20, a heat transfer medium 1060, which is at a lower temperature than the melting point of the metal part 120, is supplied to the latent heat storage body 10. The heat transfer medium 1060 is supplied, for example, parallel to the bottom surface of the ceramic part 210. The heat transfer medium 1060 is heated by the latent heat storage body 10 and moves away from the latent heat storage body 10 with greater thermal energy than when it was supplied. In this way, thermal energy can be transferred to the heat transfer medium 1060.

[0127] Alternatively, the heat transfer medium 1060 may be supplied vertically to the bottom surface of the ceramic section 210.

[0128] (11th embodiment) An eleventh embodiment will now be described. The eleventh embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 21 is a perspective cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the eleventh embodiment.

[0129] As shown in Figure 21, the latent heat storage body 10 according to the 11th embodiment has a ceramic portion 1110 made of polycrystalline material, a plurality of metal portions 1120, and a plurality of electric heating elements 1130 that can heat the metal portions 1120.

[0130] Multiple closed spaces 1111 are formed in the ceramic part 1110. The shape of the closed spaces 1111 is cylindrical. The multiple closed spaces 1111 extend in the same direction from one another. Through holes 1114 are formed in the ceramic part 1110, extending parallel to the closed spaces 1111. The closed spaces 1111 are located near the through holes 1114. The ceramic part 1110 is constructed, for example, as a single unit. For example, there are no joints connecting the ceramic part 1110 to the closed spaces 1111. The ceramic part 1110 is made of the same material as the ceramic part 110.

[0131] Each metal part 1120 is provided individually within the enclosed space 1111. In other words, the metal parts 1120 are sealed within the ceramic parts 1110. It can also be said that the metal parts 1120 are airtightly covered by the continuous ceramic parts 1110. The metal parts 120 have a columnar shape. The metal parts 1120 are made of the same material as the metal parts 120.

[0132] The volume of the closed space 1111 is preferably larger than the volume of the metal part 1120. If the volume of the closed space 1111 is larger than the volume of the metal part 1120, a gap exists between the surface of the metal part 1120 and the inner surface of the closed space 1111, although this is not shown in Figure 21. The gap between the surface of the metal part 1120 and the inner surface of the closed space 1111 may exist in only one place or in multiple places.

[0133] The heating element 1130 is provided within the ceramic part 1110. The heating element 1130, like the heating element 1030, has a substantially cylindrical shape and, when viewed from a direction parallel to the long axis of the columnar metal part 1120, forms a spiral, for example, by alternately rotating clockwise and counterclockwise. The heating element 1130 is made of the same material as the heating element 830. The heating element 1130 is an example of a heater.

[0134] The latent heat storage body 11 according to the 11th embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except in terms of shape. 0 It can be manufactured in the same manner as in the embodiment.

[0135] During heat storage, the electric heating element 1130 generates heat, melting the metal part 1120. When utilizing the heat stored in the latent heat storage body 11, a heat transfer medium at a temperature lower than the melting point of the metal part 1120 is supplied into the through-hole 1114. The heat transfer medium is heated by the latent heat storage body 11 and moves away from the latent heat storage body 11 with greater thermal energy than when it was supplied. In this way, thermal energy can be transferred to the heat transfer medium.

[0136] The same effects as those of the tenth embodiment can be obtained with the eleventh embodiment.

[0137] (12th embodiment) A twelfth embodiment will now be described. The twelfth embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the twelfth embodiment.

[0138] As shown in Figure 22, the latent heat storage body 12 according to the 12th embodiment has a ceramic portion 110 made of polycrystalline material, a metal portion 120, and a thermocouple 1240 that generates electricity due to the temperature change of the metal portion 120.

[0139] The thermocouple 1240 has a first conductor 1241 and a second conductor 1242. One end of the first conductor 1241 and one end of the second conductor 1242 are connected. The thermoelectric power differs between the first conductor 1241 and the second conductor 1242. For example, the first conductor 1241 and the second conductor 1242 contain a tungsten-rhenium alloy, with the first conductor 1241 composed of 5 mass% rhenium and 95 mass% tungsten, and the second conductor 1242 composed of 26 mass% rhenium and 74 mass% tungsten.

[0140] The other configurations are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0141] In manufacturing the latent heat storage body 12 according to the 12th embodiment, for example, a paste for the first conductor 1241 and a paste for the second conductor 1242 are prepared, and a paste portion for a thermocouple having the shape of a thermocouple 1240 is formed by a screen printing method or the like. Then, the paste portion for the thermocouple is fired simultaneously with the ceramic portion 130 and the metal portion 140.

[0142] The twelfth embodiment can also obtain the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, because a thermocouple 1240 is provided, the state of the metal part 120 can be easily determined. For example, during the heat storage process, while the metal part 120 is solid, the temperature indicated by the thermocouple 1240 rises over time, while the metal part 120 is undergoing a phase change from solid to liquid, the temperature indicated by the thermocouple 1240 stabilizes. After the phase change is complete, the temperature indicated by the thermocouple 1240 rises again over time. Therefore, it is easy to determine whether the phase change has started, is continuing, or has been completed.

[0143] In latent heat storage bodies, if the metal part that has become liquid after the phase change is completed is further heated, it is not possible to store latent heat, and the energy input may be wasted. In contrast, in this embodiment, since the completion of the phase change can be detected using the thermocouple 1240, energy waste can be suppressed by storing the heat in another latent heat storage body 12 after the phase change is completed.

[0144] (First modified example of the 12th embodiment) A first modified example of the twelfth embodiment will now be described. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the first modified example of the twelfth embodiment.

[0145] The latent heat storage body 12A according to the first modified example of the 12th embodiment, as shown in Figure 23, has a ceramic part 110 made of polycrystalline material, a metal part 120, a thermocouple 1240 that generates electricity due to the temperature change of the metal part 120, and an electric heating element 830 that can heat the metal part 120. The electric heating element 830 is provided, for example, near one of the largest pair of surfaces of the metal part 120.

[0146] The other configurations are the same as in the twelfth embodiment.

[0147] The same effects as the 12th embodiment can be obtained by the first modification of the 12th embodiment. Furthermore, according to the first modification of the 12th embodiment, as with the 8th embodiment, energy loss can be reduced because the latent heat storage body 12A includes the electric heating element 830.

[0148] (Second modified example of the 12th embodiment) A second modified example of the twelfth embodiment will now be described. Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the second modified example of the twelfth embodiment.

[0149] In the latent heat storage body 12B according to the second modification of the twelfth embodiment, as shown in Figure 24, a flow path 1214 through which a heat transfer medium flows is formed in the ceramic portion 110.

[0150] The same effects as in the 12th embodiment can be obtained by the second modification of the 12th embodiment. Furthermore, since the flow path 1214 is formed, the heat exchange efficiency between the heat transfer medium flowing through the flow path 1214 and the metal part 120 can be improved.

[0151] (13th Embodiment) A thirteenth embodiment will now be described. The thirteenth embodiment relates to a latent heat storage body and corresponds to an application example of the twelfth embodiment. Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a latent heat storage body according to the thirteenth embodiment.

[0152] The latent heat storage body 13 according to the 13th embodiment, as shown in Figure 25, has a ceramic part 110 made of polycrystalline material, a metal part 120, a thermocouple 1240 that generates electricity due to the temperature change of the metal part 120, and an insulated container 150. The ceramic part 110 is housed in the insulated container 150. The insulated container 150 is provided with a heat inlet 151 and a heat outlet 152.

[0153] Here, an example of how to use the latent heat storage body 13 according to the 13th embodiment will be described. Figure 26 is a diagram illustrating how to use the latent heat storage body 13 according to the 13th embodiment. In Figure 26, the metal part 120 has a textured surface, and the denser the textured surface, the higher the temperature.

[0154] In this example, as shown in Figure 26(a), multiple latent heat storage bodies 13 are used. The inlets 151 and outlets 152 of the multiple latent heat storage bodies 13 are alternately directly connected, forming a heat transfer system (series configuration). The temperature of the metal part 120 decreases as you move downstream from the latent heat storage body 13 connected furthest upstream in the heat transfer path. In each latent heat storage body 13, the phase change state of the metal part 120 can be detected using a thermocouple 1240.

[0155] When the completion of the phase change is detected in the upstream latent heat storage body 13, as shown in Figure 26(b), the latent heat storage body 13 is disconnected from the heat transfer system and either retains its heat or is used for an application where heat utilization is required. If the heat is to be retained, it is preferable to block the inlet 151 and outlet 152. On the other hand, heat is directly supplied to the second latent heat storage body 13 connected from the upstream side, and this latent heat storage body 13 becomes the upstream latent heat storage body 13. Hereafter, although not shown in the figures, the latent heat storage bodies 13 in which the completion of the phase change is detected are sequentially disconnected from the heat transfer system.

[0156] According to the 13th embodiment, heat can be stored in the multiple latent heat storage bodies 13 while suppressing the waste of thermal energy.

[0157] Although preferred embodiments have been described in detail above, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and substitutions can be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0158] 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 8A, 8B, 9, 10, 11, 12, 12A, 12B, 13 Latent heat storage body 110, 130, 210, 250A, 250B, 310, 350A, 350B, 410, 510, 610, 710, 1110 Ceramic part 120, 140, 220, 260, 320, 360, 420, 520, 620, 720, 1120 Metal parts 111, 131, 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711, 1111 Closed space 150 Insulated containers 414, 514, 614, 714, 1114 through holes 1130 Electric heating element 1240 Thermocouple

Claims

1. A ceramic part made of a polycrystalline material in which a closed space is formed, A metal part containing copper is provided within the aforementioned closed space, It has, The ceramic part has a cylindrical shape with an inner wall surface and an outer wall surface. The enclosed space and the metal part are latent heat storage bodies having a spiral shape along the inner wall surface and the outer wall surface.

2. A ceramic part made of a polycrystalline material in which a closed space is formed, A metal part containing copper is provided within the aforementioned closed space, It has, The ceramic portion has a plurality of through holes extending in the first direction. The enclosed space and the metal part have a columnar shape parallel to the first direction. A latent heat storage body having multiple sets of the closed space and the metal part.

3. A ceramic part made of a polycrystalline material in which a closed space is formed, A metal part containing copper is provided within the aforementioned closed space, It has, The ceramic portion has a plurality of through holes extending in the first direction. The enclosed space and the metal part are latent heat storage bodies having a bellows shape extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

4. A ceramic part made of a polycrystalline material in which a closed space is formed, A metal part containing copper is provided within the aforementioned closed space, It has, The ceramic portion has a plurality of through holes extending in the first direction. The enclosed space and the metal part are latent heat storage bodies having a bellows shape extending in the first direction.

5. A ceramic part made of a polycrystalline material in which a closed space is formed, A metal part containing copper is provided within the aforementioned closed space, It has, A latent heat storage body in which titanium is present between the metal part and the ceramic part.

6. The latent heat storage body according to claim 5, wherein the mass of the titanium is greater than 0% and less than or equal to 10% of the mass of the metal part.

7. A ceramic part made of a polycrystalline material in which a plurality of closed spaces are formed, Multiple metal parts containing copper are provided within the aforementioned closed spaces, It has, The ceramic portion has a pair of main surfaces that are parallel to each other. Multiple of the closed spaces are formed between the set of main surfaces in a plane parallel to the main surfaces, A latent heat storage body in which multiple metal parts are provided one by one in each of the multiple closed spaces.

8. The latent heat storage body according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a heater capable of heating the metal part.

9. The latent heat storage body according to claim 8, wherein the heater is provided within the ceramic portion.

10. The latent heat storage body according to claim 8, wherein the heater is provided on the surface of the ceramic part.

11. The latent heat storage body according to claim 8, wherein the heater contains a mixture of tungsten and aluminum oxide, or a mixture of molybdenum and aluminum oxide.

12. The latent heat storage body according to claim 8, wherein the heater contains molybdenum disilide, ruthenium oxide, nickel-chromium alloy, or silver-palladium alloy.

13. The latent heat storage body according to claim 12, further comprising glass, for the heater.

14. The latent heat storage body according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the volume of the closed space is greater than the volume of the metal part.

15. The latent heat storage body according to claim 14, wherein at 25°C, the volume of the closed space is 112% or more and 120% or less of the volume of the metal part.

16. The latent heat storage body according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the metal part contains copper in a proportion of 99% by mass or more.

17. The aforementioned ceramic part is It contains aluminum oxide in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, It contains mullite in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, It contains aluminum nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more, or A latent heat storage body according to any one of claims 1 to 7, containing a mixture of aluminum nitride and boron nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more.

18. The latent heat storage body according to any one of claims 1 to 7, having a thermocouple that generates electricity due to a temperature change in the metal part.

19. The latent heat storage body according to claim 18, wherein the thermocouple is provided within the ceramic portion.

20. The latent heat storage body according to claim 18, wherein the thermocouple is provided on the surface of the ceramic portion.

21. The thermocouple is a latent heat storage body according to claim 18, containing a tungsten-rhenium alloy.

22. The latent heat storage body according to claim 18, wherein the ceramic portion has a channel through which a heat transfer medium flows.

23. A step of preparing a composite having a copper-containing metal part and an unfired ceramic part comprising a laminate of green sheets having a cavity for housing the metal part, with the metal part housed in the cavity, A step of firing the metal part and the ceramic part simultaneously, A method for manufacturing a latent heat storage body having

24. The method for manufacturing a latent heat storage body according to claim 23, wherein the metal part contains titanium.

25. The method for manufacturing a latent heat storage body according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the metal part contains copper in a proportion of 99% by mass or more.

26. The aforementioned ceramic part is It contains aluminum oxide in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, It contains mullite in a proportion of 90% by mass or more, It contains aluminum nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more, or A method for producing a latent heat storage body according to claim 23 or 24, comprising a mixture of aluminum nitride and boron nitride in a proportion of 95% by mass or more.

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