| Title |
A Study on the Optimal Design of Buffer Tank Considering Diffuser Heights and Discharge Velocity |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.6110/KJACR.2025.37.12.563 |
| Keywords |
엑서지손실; 층상구조; 에너지 저장시스템; 열부력 Exergy loss; Stratified structures; Thermal energy storage system; Thermal buoyancy |
| Abstract |
To maximize the thermal performance of buffer tanks in heating and cooling systems, it is crucial to maintain effective internal thermal stratification. This study systematically examines how diffuser installation height (h) and discharge velocity (V) influence the formation and maintenance of temperature layers within buffer tanks, utilizing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and dimensionless analysis based on the Froude number (Fr). The results indicate that the interplay between diffuser height and velocity regulates the balance between inflow momentum and thermal buoyancy. By carefully controlling these parameters within a specific range, it is possible to stabilize stratified structures and minimize exergy loss due to mixing. These findings aim to provide practical design guidelines for improving the performance of buffer tanks in HVAC and thermal energy storage systems. Future studies will focus on developing empirical correlations that integrate dimensionless parameters such as h/H, H/D, Fr, and Ri, while proposing optimal design strategies for various operating conditions. |