A solar Brayton cycle with metal phase change thermal storage
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Authors
Roof, Barrett C.
Subjects
thermal energy storage
thermodynamics
heat transfer
fluid dynamics
thermodynamics
heat transfer
fluid dynamics
Advisors
Gannon, Anthony J.
Date of Issue
2017-06
Date
Jun-17
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
The Department of the Navy (DON) has prioritized the establishment of a robust renewable energy platform for its installations. Solar energy has emerged in a way that has provided viable alternatives. The use of solar energy, however, poses a problem of maintaining continuity of power during hours when sunlight is not available. The development of Thermal Energy Storage (TES), while addressing this problem, introduces complexities that can reduce overall plant efficiency. This research aims to simplify the plant design in a way that minimizes such complexities and maximizes efficiency. The research in this thesis explores a new design that integrates static molten metal baths with the solar collector. The proposed initial design is centered on a simple open air Brayton cycle. Aluminum was selected as the phase change metal, providing latent heat to the air in the collector during hours of non-daylight through freezing. The research focuses on the thermodynamic analysis of the system, initial collector design requirements, and minimum volumetric requirements of the aluminum phase change metal. An analytical and numerical flow optimization study of the system was performed for comparison to design calculations.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.