Modular Thermal Energy Storage System With Independent Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal energy storage systems face inefficiencies due to non-uniform heat transfer fluid flow and temperature characteristics, which hinder optimal performance in delivering specified energy requirements for power generation, particularly in combined heat and power plants with renewable energy integration.
Innovation Solution
A modular thermal energy storage system comprising closely packed modules with thermally conductive sealed tubes and a flow control system, including a processing system, temperature sensors, and control valves, allows for time-varying heat transfer fluid flow rates and temperatures to maintain optimal energy transfer and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional thermal energy storage system uses a single heat transfer fluid flow path, then the system structure is simple, but the HTF temperature and flow rate cannot be independently controlled, resulting in non-uniform thermal output
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal energy storage system is divided into multiple independent TES modules, each capable of storing thermal energy at different temperature levels. This segmentation allows the system to provide thermal energy at different temperatures and flow rates simultaneously, enabling independent control of HTF temperature and flow rate to meet varying user requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single-dimensional flow path to a multi-dimensional modular architecture. By arranging TES modules in parallel and series configurations, the system creates multiple flow paths that allow independent adjustment of temperature and flow rate parameters, adding dimensional flexibility to the thermal energy delivery system.
2Productivity
If the heat transfer fluid flow rate is increased, then more thermal energy can be extracted from the TES system, but the HTF temperature decreases, reducing the useful energy that can be extracted
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the flow distribution across different TES modules based on real-time temperature and flow rate requirements. By using control valves and flow distributors, the system can optimize the flow rate through each module to maintain HTF temperature within the optimal range for the connected power block, thereby maximizing useful energy extraction while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different TES modules can be configured with different flow rates and temperature levels according to their specific function and the requirements of the connected power block. This local optimization allows certain modules to operate at higher flow rates for maximum energy extraction while others maintain higher temperatures for efficiency, resolving the contradiction between productivity and temperature maintenance.
3Temperature
If the heat transfer fluid flow rate is decreased to maintain higher temperature, then more useful energy can be extracted per unit time, but the total thermal energy extraction rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple TES modules are merged into a unified system with a common HTF circuit. This allows the system to combine the thermal output of multiple modules, each operating at optimized flow rates and temperatures, to achieve both high temperature and high total energy extraction rate simultaneously. The modular architecture enables parallel operation of multiple flow paths.
4Volume of stationary object
If a single large thermal energy storage system is used, then the system occupies less space, but it lacks the flexibility to achieve desired optimal system performance during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal energy storage system is segmented into multiple standardized modular units that can be compactly arranged to occupy minimal space. Each module is independently controllable, providing the flexibility to adjust operational parameters based on demand. This modular segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling both compact arrangement and operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular system incorporates dynamic control capabilities with flow distributors and control valves that can adjust the operational configuration in real-time. This allows the compact modular system to adapt its performance characteristics dynamically, achieving optimal system performance for varying operational conditions while maintaining a compact footprint.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system ensures consistent and efficient delivery of thermal energy with predetermined temperature and flow rate profiles, enhancing energy storage and generation efficiency while reducing capital and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
a heat transfer fluid (HTF) flowing through the shell will exchange thermal energy with a thermal energy storage (TES) media
Implementation Method 2
a hotter HTF flowing through the shell will heat the TES media (through the container walls), to store the thermal energy therein
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal energy storage (TES) system includes a plurality of closely packed TES modules, each TES module having a shell enclosing a plurality of sealed tubes that each contain a TES media. A computer-controlled flow control system includes a flow distributor, for example a flow distributor having a plenum configured to receive a heat transfer fluid (HTF), and a plurality of control valves controlled by the computer to controllably distribute the HTF from the plenum to the plurality of TES modules. Sensor data from the TES modules, for example temperature, pressure, and/or flow data, is provided to the computer. In some embodiments the plenum includes two or more compartments with separate HTF flow ports, which may be provided to the controller at different temperatures.