Session: 09-05-01: Sustainable Energy Systems for Heating and Cooling I

Paper Number: 173293

Investigation of Solidification Behavior in Pcm-Based Shell-and-Tube Storage Units Through Modeling, Experimentation, and Cfd Analysis 

This study presents a comprehensive investigation of phase change material (PCM) solidification in shell-and-tube thermal energy storage systems using a multi-method approach combining analytical modeling, experimental validation, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis. The research addresses the need for accurate prediction of solidification behavior in latent heat thermal energy storage systems, which are essential for improving energy efficiency and renewable energy integration. An analytical model was developed to predict the spatiotemporal evolution of solid layer growth during PCM solidification processes. The model captures the complex heat transfer mechanisms occurring within the system and accounts for the dynamic nature of thermal resistances as solidification progresses. The analytical framework enables efficient computation while maintaining sufficient accuracy for engineering applications. Experimental validation was conducted using a shell-and-tube test facility featuring a horizontal configuration with controlled operating conditions. The experimental setup incorporated comprehensive temperature monitoring throughout the system to capture temporal and spatial variations in thermal behavior. Multiple test conditions were examined to evaluate the effects of key operating parameters on solidification characteristics and energy storage performance.CFD simulations were performed using phase change modeling techniques to provide insights into the physical mechanisms governing solidification behavior. The computational analysis revealed phenomena that cannot be observed through experimentation, including the influence of natural convection and buoyancy effects on solidification patterns. The CFD results demonstrate asymmetric behavior in the solidification process due to gravitational effects.

The study reveals that solidification in shell-and-tube systems exhibits substantial non-uniformity, challenging common assumptions of concentric or uniform solid layer development. Axial variations in solid thickness were observed and predicted by the analytical model. Parametric analysis demonstrates that operating conditions have pronounced effects on energy storage capacity and solidification characteristics. Comparison between the three methodologies shows agreement, validating the analytical approach while providing understanding of the underlying physics. The analytical model demonstrates advantages over uniform assumptions, which overestimate system performance. The research highlights the importance of accounting for spatial variations in solidification behavior for accurate performance prediction.This multi-method investigation provides validated tools and insights for optimizing shell-and-tube PCM storage system design. The findings have implications for thermal energy storage applications and demonstrate the necessity of considering non-uniform solidification patterns in system analysis and design. The developed framework enables improved prediction capabilities for thermal energy storage systems.

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Presenting Author: NUHA ALJUNEIDI Lawrence Technological University

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Nuha Aljuneidi is an Assistant Professor of Architectural Engineering at Lawrence Technological University. She holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where her research focused on thermal energy storage using phase change materials (PCMs), with applications in HVAC systems and building energy efficiency. Her dissertation integrated analytical modeling, experimental validation, and CFD simulation to investigate PCM solidification behavior in shell-and-tube and air-based heat exchanger configurations.

Dr. Aljuneidi earned her Master of Science in Renewable Energy Engineering and her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. She has extensive teaching experience in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and HVAC design, and has served as an instructor of record during her doctoral studies.

Her research interests include thermal energy storage, phase change materials, heat exchanger design, and the integration of passive and active energy-saving strategies in buildings. She has published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at major conferences such as ASME IMECE. In addition to her academic work, she has worked as a mechanical design consultant with experience in HVAC, energy modeling, and sustainable building system

Authors:

NUHA ALJUNEIDI Lawrence Technological University
Alaa Alnatsheh ERAU
Jared C Williams ERAU
Sandra Boetcher ERAU
Rafael M. Rodriguez ERAU