Nested Thermal Storage Masses for Ultra-High Temperature Heat Loss Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current thermal energy storage systems are limited by low energy densities and high thermal losses at ultra-high temperatures, making them inefficient for grid-scale energy storage and electricity generation.
Innovation Solution
A thermal energy storage system comprising two thermal storage masses with a pump or compressor, heat exchangers, and a turbine-driven electrical generator, along with advanced insulation and control valves to minimize heat loss and maximize energy transfer efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If thermal energy storage operates at higher temperatures to increase energy density, then energy density improves, but thermal losses increase exponentially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs nested thermal storage masses where an inner thermal storage mass is placed within an outer thermal storage mass. This nested configuration allows heat transfer from the inner to outer mass while maintaining ultra-high temperatures, thereby increasing energy density without proportionally increasing thermal losses to the environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a compressible fluid as an intermediary medium to transfer thermal energy between storage masses and to/from the turbine. This fluid intermediary enables efficient heat transfer at ultra-high temperatures while allowing the system to operate in a closed cycle, reducing direct thermal exposure and associated losses.
2Quantity of substance
If thermal storage temperature is increased above 800K to improve energy density, then energy density improves, but heat loss rises exponentially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop system where the compressible fluid continuously circulates through heat exchangers and the turbine, maintaining continuous useful action. This continuous circulation allows the system to sustain ultra-high temperatures (above 800K) efficiently, converting thermal energy to mechanical work continuously while minimizing heat loss through the closed cycle architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the thermal storage system by operating at ultra-high temperatures above 800K and using a compressible fluid with specific thermodynamic properties. These parameter changes enable the system to achieve higher energy density while the closed-cycle operation and heat exchanger design minimize heat loss at these elevated temperatures.
3Quantity of substance
If thermal energy storage is used for grid-scale electricity generation, then energy storage capacity improves, but transfer efficiency from heat to electricity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a compressible fluid (gas or vapor) as the working medium throughout the system. This pneumatic approach allows efficient heat-to-mechanical energy conversion in the turbine while maintaining high temperatures. The compressible fluid circulates through heat exchangers and the turbine in a closed cycle, enabling grid-scale energy storage capacity with improved heat-to-electricity transfer efficiency compared to traditional thermal storage systems.
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 achieves higher energy density and transfer efficiency, making grid-scale thermal storage technically and economically feasible by minimizing heat losses and optimizing energy transfer at ultra-high temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
a pump or compressor which forces a compressible fluid around the system
Implementation Method 2
a first storage mass heat exchanger having a first side in fluid communication with the pump or compressor, and a second side in contact with the outer thermal storage mass; a second storage mass heat exchanger having a first side in fluid communication with the first side of the first storage mass heat exchanger, and a second side in contact with the inner thermal storage mass
Implementation Method 3
a turbine having a turbine inlet in fluid communication with the first side of the second storage mass heat exchanger, and a turbine outlet; and an electrical generator which is driven by the turbine
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a thermal energy storage system, comprising at least two thermal storage masses, wherein an inner thermal storage mass (48) is contained within an outer thermal storage mass (49). A pump or compressor (42) forces a compressible fluid around the system. A first storage mass heat exchanger (50) has a first side in fluid communication with the pump or compressor (42), and a second side in contact with the outer thermal storage mass (49). A second storage mass heat exchanger (51) has a first side in fluid communication with the first side of the first storage mass heat exchanger (50), and a second side in contact with the inner thermal storage mass (48). A turbine (43) has a turbine inlet in fluid communication with the first side of the second storage mass heat exchanger (51), and a turbine outlet. An electrical generator is driven by the turbine (43). The system further comprises a thermal store (52) containing a thermal store medium. At least one thermal input heat exchanger (55) is located in the thermal store (52), the at least one thermal input heat exchanger having a first side adapted to receive heat from the outer thermal storage mass (49), and a second side in contact with the thermal store medium. At least one thermal output heat exchanger (53) is also located in the thermal store (52), the at least one thermal output heat exchanger having a first side in fluid communication with a hot water and/or heating supply, and a second side in contact with the thermal store medium.