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Optimization of heat transfer in latent heat storage devices: coupled design of end plates and needle fins with stratified analysis

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  • Liu, Jiazhen
  • Liu, Zhenrong
  • Song, Caiyue
  • Shi, Hong
  • Huang, Qi
  • Yuan, Nenglin

Abstract

This study proposes an optimized design for Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) devices to address the “heat transfer dead zone” issue by integrating a water storage heat transfer end plate with needle fins. The heat transfer end plate enhances natural convection within the dead zone. A stratified numerical analysis method was established to investigate the formation mechanism and process of the heat transfer dead zone, revealing its distribution patterns and impact on heat transfer efficiency. The geometric parameters of the needle fins were optimized based on orthogonal experimental design. The CRITIC objective weighting method was used to evaluate the device's performance. The optimized Case 11 structure significantly improved key metrics compared to the conventional design, reducing melting time by 61.91 %, increasing PCM natural convection velocity by 300 %, and raising heat flux by 150 %. This study offers an innovative solution to the heat transfer dead zone problem in LHTES devices and provides theoretical support and engineering reference for efficient energy storage device design.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Jiazhen & Liu, Zhenrong & Song, Caiyue & Shi, Hong & Huang, Qi & Yuan, Nenglin, 2026. "Optimization of heat transfer in latent heat storage devices: coupled design of end plates and needle fins with stratified analysis," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 256(PD).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:256:y:2026:i:pd:s0960148125018208
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.124156
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    1. Tang, Songzhen & Zhang, Dongliang & Wang, Wei & Xi, Huan & Wu, Xuehong & Guo, Ming, 2026. "Enhancing melting-solidification performance of latent heat thermal energy storage units with twisted fins," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 260(C).

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