Novel scheme for a PCM-based cold energy storage system. Design, modelling, and simulation

This paper studies the design and the dynamic modelling of a novel cold-storage refrigeration system based on phase-change materials (PCM). Cold production supported by thermal storage systems (TES) is a very appealing field of research, since it renders possible higher levels of efficiency in cold production systems, via flexible cold-energy management, combining demand fulfilment with cost optimization strategies. The paper proposes and compares two different simulation models for a cold-storage refrigeration system based on PCM. First, a continuous model, the application of which is limited to certain conditions, but, given such conditions, it is a precise model, useful for the design of the TES structural parameters, as well as for comparison and validation of the other model. The second proposed model is a discrete one, which, despite of being a discrete approximation of the continuous process, it is of general validity.