Analysis of PCM storage unit for night coolness storage in summer season

Abstract

This paper presents a theoretical analysis of a thermal storage unit, which consists of parallel rectangular channels for the air flow each separated by a phase change material (PCM). The purpose of the storage unit is to absorb night coolness and to provide cooled air at comfort temperatures during daytime in the summer season. A MATLAB simulation tool has been used to compute the air temperature variation with location as well as time, charging and discharging times of the storage unit. Effect of PCM mass, air flow rate and different inlet temperatures are considered for daytime and nighttime operations of the storage unit. Maximum daytime and minimum nighttime ambient temperatures for the selected location are 40°C and 24°C, respectively, for the month of June. Results show that air temperature at the exit increases and discharging time decreases on increasing the air flow rates during the daytime operation. © 2011 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.