Performance Testing of a Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger with Phase Change Material for Hot Air Generator Applications

Nat Thuchayapong, Paisan Comsawang

Abstract


This study investigates the performance testing of a shell-and-tube heat exchanger designed for thermal energy storage using a phase change material (PCM), specifically sodium hydroxide. The heat exchanger used biomass-derived heat from a gasification burner, with hot air flowing within the shell and cold air passing through the tubes in a cross-flow arrangement. PCM was positioned beneath the heat exchanger cover to store excess heat during the heating process and extend the heat exchange duration during cooling. The system was tested at three cold air flow speeds (1.717, 2.965, and 5.490 m/s), while maintaining a constant hot air flow of 0.663 m/s. Results demonstrated that the PCM-enhanced heat exchanger effectively retained heat, keeping the cold air temperature above 60°C for up to 70 minutes at 1.717 m/s, compared to 40 minutes without PCM. These results suggest that incorporating PCM considerably improves heat retention and prolongs heat exchange duration.

Keywords


gasification burner; hot air generato; phase change material; shell-and-tube heat exchanger; thermal energy storage

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.64289/iej.25.03A11.5944659