CFD analysis of phase-change material-based heat storage with dimple-shaped fins: evaluation of fin configuration and distribution pattern

Abstract Phase-change materials (PCMs) have a remarkable potential for use as efficient energy storage means. However, their poor response rates during and retrieval modes require the of heat transfer enhancers to combat these limitations. This research marks first attempt explore dimple-shaped fins enhancement PCM thermal in shell-and-tube casing. Fin arrays with different dimensions diverse distribution patterns were designed studied assess effect modifying fin geometric parameters various spatial zones physical domain. The results indicate that increasing number dimple range 8–32 faster by up 8.7% than they would be without fins. Further improvements approximately 1.4, 1.2, 1.1, 1.0% can obtained optimizing position section, spacing between other sections, based on aromatic algorithm, staggered distribution. rate is improved almost 12% best case compared no-fin case.