Modeling Dual–Tank Molten Salt Thermal Energy Storage Systems

Abstract

Thermal energy storage systems are designed to store extra heat in order to release it at a more appropriate time. There are many industrial applications that can utilize the thermal energy storage concept, such as oil drilling and solar power generation. A model depicting the operation of a dual–tank molten salt thermal energy storage system was developed to be used to optimize its charging and discharging operations. Thermal energy storage systems are very well insulated; nonetheless, molten salt is constantly losing small amounts of its heat to the ambient because of the large temperature gradient across the surface of the holding tanks. Consequently, auxiliary heaters are always attached to thermal energy storage systems to prevent salt freezing during extended periods of little or no thermal energy input, such as lengthy cloud cover periods in solar thermal power plants.