High-Temperature Thermal Energy Storage System for Industrial Decarbonization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current industrial processes face challenges in decarbonizing high-temperature applications due to the limitations of existing thermal energy storage systems, which typically achieve temperatures below 1000°C, and there is a need for systems that can efficiently convert intermittent renewable energy into high-temperature heat with storage capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a heating subsystem, a heat transfer and storage subsystem, and a post-heating subsystem that uses electromagnetic fields or radiation to generate, store, and transfer thermal energy, allowing for the production of high-temperature fluids capable of replacing fossil fuels in industrial processes, with the ability to integrate with existing infrastructure and provide grid services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional thermal energy storage systems are used, then energy storage capability is provided, but the maximum temperature is limited to below 1000°C
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent heating zones (first heating zone with first heating element, second heating zone with second heating element) that can operate independently or in combination. This segmentation allows different temperature zones to be maintained simultaneously, enabling the system to achieve higher maximum temperatures while maintaining reliability through distributed heating rather than relying on a single high-stress heating component.
Solution Approach 2:
A heat transfer fluid acts as an intermediary medium between the heating elements and the thermal energy storage material. The fluid circulates through the storage material, transferring heat indirectly and allowing the storage material to reach temperatures above 1000°C without direct contact with the heating elements, thus protecting the heating components while achieving high storage temperatures.
2Temperature
If fossil fuels are used for high-temperature industrial processes, then required temperatures are achieved, but carbon emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces chemical combustion processes with electrical heating elements that convert electrical energy directly into thermal energy. This substitution eliminates carbon emissions from the heating process while achieving the same high temperatures required for industrial applications, as the heating elements can reach and maintain temperatures above 1000°C through resistive or electromagnetic heating without fuel combustion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the energy source parameter from chemical energy (fossil fuels) to electrical energy, and changes the temperature delivery mechanism from combustion gas transfer to direct electrical heating and heat transfer fluid circulation. This allows achieving high temperatures without the harmful byproducts of combustion.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If intermittent renewable energy is used, then carbon emissions are reduced, but energy availability and stability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary heating of the thermal energy storage material when renewable energy is available, storing thermal energy in advance for later use. The heating elements charge the storage material during periods of high renewable energy generation, and the stored thermal energy is then discharged during periods of low generation, effectively decoupling energy production from energy consumption timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal energy storage material utilizes phase transitions (such as melting and solidification of phase change materials) to store and release large amounts of thermal energy at constant temperature. This allows the system to accumulate energy from intermittent renewable sources during charging phases and release it during discharging phases, extending energy availability duration while maintaining stable temperature output.
4Duration of action of moving object
If thermal energy storage is implemented, then energy shifting capability is provided, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal energy storage system is designed to perform multiple functions: it stores thermal energy, transfers heat to process fluids, and can operate in different modes (charging, discharging, standby). The same thermal storage material and heat transfer fluid circulation system serve both energy storage and heat delivery functions, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall system architecture despite the extended energy storage capability.
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 enables the generation of high-temperature fluids for industrial processes, reducing carbon emissions, optimizing energy costs, and providing flexibility and efficiency in energy storage and grid services, while achieving temperatures exceeding 1000°C without combustion.
Implementation Method 1
uses electromagnetic fields or radiation to generate, store, and transfer thermal energy
Implementation Method 2
heating subsystem, a heat transfer and storage subsystem connected to the heating subsystem
Implementation Method 3
heat transfer and storage subsystem connected to the heating subsystem
Implementation Method 4
the heat transfer and storage subsystem and the post heating subsystem are configured to change the temperature of a fluid
Implementation Method 5
heat transfer and storage subsystem connected to the heating subsystem
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is related to a system for generating high-temperature fluids, designed to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency in various industrial processes. The system leverages advanced thermal energy transfer and storage technologies to efficiently utilize diverse energy sources, including grid electricity, renewable energy, and waste heat from industrial processes. Particularly, the system comprises a heating subsystem, a heat transfer and storage subsystem, a post-heating subsystem, and an electrical feeding subsystem, a fluid circulation subsystem and a cooling circulation subsystem. The heat transfer and storage subsystem utilize innovative materials and techniques to efficiently store and release thermal energy, enabling the system to operate with high thermal efficiency and flexibility.The system can be integrated into various industrial processes, and by optimizing energy utilization and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the system contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. Additionally, the system can be integrated with different renewable electricity generation systems such a photovoltaic, wind, hydroelectric, among others. The system can also be integrated with the electrical grid, providing valuable grid services such as load balancing, energy shifting, and frequency regulation. This enhances grid stability and enables the system to contribute to a more resilient and efficient energy infrastructure.Furthermore, this invention offers a promising solution for reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing the flexibility and reliability of industrial processes.