Skip to main content
U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

A characteristic dimensionless time in phase change problems

Journal Article · · J. Sol. Energy Eng.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1115/1.3268111· OSTI ID:6908099
In this paper a comparison is made between an approximate analytical solution and the numerical finite difference solution for the one dimensional solidification of a phase change material of finite size. The analytical model is not only capable of handling materials with a fixed melting temperature but is also extended to cope with materials with a transition range. In the approximate analytical model, use is made of the well known Neumann solution for the solidification in a semi-infinite region. A characteristic dimensionless time has been derived that can be used in a simplified description of the solidification of a phase-change material. With this description the testing of latent heat storage devices can be simplified and the results can also be used in simulation programs of solar energy installations with a latent heat storage.
Research Organization:
Delft Univ. of Technology, Applied Physics Dept., 2600 GA Delft
OSTI ID:
6908099
Journal Information:
J. Sol. Energy Eng.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Sol. Energy Eng.; (United States) Vol. 108:4; ISSN JSEED
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English