Similarity curve in solidification process of latent-heat energy storage unit with longitudinally straight fins; Part 1, Effect of Stefan number on applicability of similarity rule
Similarity curves for different Biot numbers are known to become indistinguishable with decreasing Stefan number; in other words, the similarity rule becomes more applicable for smaller Stefan number. In such a finned-tube-type storage unit as treated in this study, it has been found that the effect of Stefan number on the similarity curve varies with the number of fins. Sensible heat liberated during the solidification process has been calculated individually in a phase-change material with a heat-transfer tube and fins, and represented as a function of the frozen fraction for two specified values of Biot number, 0.1 and 1000, under specified conditions of Stefan number and the number on fins. The latent-heat contribution to heat flow out of the storage unit has been examined in comparison with the sensible-heat contribution. The latent- and sensible-heat contributions are almost inversely related. This inverse relationship reduces the effect of the Stefan number on the applicability of the similarity rule.
- OSTI ID:
- 7128567
- Journal Information:
- Heat Transfer - Japanese Research; (United States), Vol. 22:8; ISSN 0096-0802
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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