Abstract

This study examines how tree-like fins can be used to improve the phase-change process of Latent Heat Storage (LHS) systems. ANSYS-Fluent was utilized to predict the temperature distribution and the time-evolution of the phase-change process. A Heat Transfer Fluid (HTF) at 353 K was used for the charging, and 293 K for the discharging process in a shell and tube configuration. Results showed that tree-like fins provide superior thermal performance compared to straight fins (base case) for both charging and discharging. The thermal performance is enhanced when employing short fin lengths relative to their maximum size at each branch (small ?n values). This reduces the temperature gradients within the PCM without increasing the volume occupied by the fins within the LHS system. In addition, decreasing ?n values increases the heat transfer area between the fins and Phase-Change Material (PCM). Designs with two bifurcations achieved a notable increase in their heat transfer area, accelerating the phase-change process compared to the base case. © 2023 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.