Publication

Abstract : A primary concern while dealing with solar energy is its stochastic nature. The greatest challenge at hand is to understand the complexity of energy storage and to store the excess energy during off-peak conditions and its re-use. A handful of literatures have documented the scope and benefits of using thermal energy storage (latent heat), which focuses on the use of phase change materials (PCM) as a reliable and economic mode of energy repository. In this paper, an experimental analysis centered on a double-pass solar air heater system (DPSAHS) has been carried out. A macro-encapsulation (rectangular) has been provided and is filled with paraffin wax (58–60 °C) up to 75% of its volume, which acts as the energy storage medium. The objectives of the analysis were to extend the operational capability as well as to improve the reliability of DPSAHS with the aid of phase change materials. A comparison of the performance of DPSAHS with and without macro-encapsulated PCM at different mass flow rates was also conducted. The analysis reinstated that, higher the flow rate higher was the efficiency. The results concluded that, with the incorporation of energy storage medium the operational capability has been extended by two hours, thereby, improving the overall efficiency of the system.