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Design of a modular heat storage for heat commodification: Optimal aspect ratio of a laterally heated PCM enclosure

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  • Zhao, Luoguang
  • Zhao, Chunrong
  • Opolot, Michael
  • Mancin, Simone
  • Hooman, Kamel

Abstract

In this work, we numerically investigate a rectangular PCM tank with isothermal heating applied to one vertical wall, while the remaining walls are insulated. The effects of enclosure length (L) and height (H) on melting performance are systematically examined. It is shown that for each length, there exists an optimal height that minimizes the melting time. Moreover, this optimal height Hopt decreases with increasing enclosure length and wall temperature. A theoretical model is developed and validated against simulation results, revealing that the optimal enclosure aspect ratio follows the scaling law ARopt∼RaL−1/7. This framework provides practical guidance for the design of insert-free PCM enclosures aimed at rapid thermal response and efficient energy storage.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhao, Luoguang & Zhao, Chunrong & Opolot, Michael & Mancin, Simone & Hooman, Kamel, 2025. "Design of a modular heat storage for heat commodification: Optimal aspect ratio of a laterally heated PCM enclosure," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 341(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:341:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225050625
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.139420
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    References listed on IDEAS

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