Numerical Simulation of a Latent Heat Storage System of a Solar-Aided Ground Source Heat Pump

In this study, the rectangular phase change storage tank (PCST) linked to a solar-aided ground source heat pump (SAGSHP) system is investigated experimentally and theoretically. The container of the phase change material (PCM) is the controlling unit of the phase change heat transfer model. It was solved numerically by an enthalpy-based finite difference method and was validated by experimental data. CaCl2•6H2O was used as the PCM in the latent heat storage system of SAGSHP system. In the tank, the PCMs are encapsulated in plastic kegs that are setting on the serpentine coil. The experiments were performed from March 12 to April 10, 2004 in the heating season of the transition period. In order to reflect the effects of the system, two days were chosen to compare the numerical results with experimental data. The inlet and outlet temperature of the water in the PCST, temperature of PCM and storage and emission heat of PCST were measured. The trends of the variation of numerical results and experimental data were in close agreement. Numerical results can reflect the operation mode of the system very well.