Modeling and Dynamic Simulation of a Phase-Change Material Tank for Powering Chiller Generators in District Cooling Networks

Latent heat storage in district cooling systems (DCS) offers advantages such as energy efficiency, load shifting, and flexibility. It optimizes utilization by storing thermal during off-peak hours using it peak periods. This results cost savings, a reduced environmental impact, the enhanced reliability of system. In present study, novel system consisting phase-change material (PCM) tank coupled to 120 kW chiller generator for is proposed. During loads, proposed PCM intended supply consistent power at an appropriate temperature. The modeled lumped-capacitance approach, effective capacity approach used model PCM’s phase-transition phenomena. system’s dynamic performance evaluated, impact various parameters PCM-tank discharging process analyzed. computational findings are compared experimental data taken from real network, there excellent agreement. Results showed that increasing needed rate 160 decreases tank’s duration about 20% increases pump consumption. was also found advantageous extends constant production 62% when volume increased 5 m3 10 m3. Finally, shown choice type crucial improving performance. Erythritol suitable medium A118 MgCl2·6H2O, erythritol instead period continuous generation 67%.