Validating a numerical phase change model by using infrared thermography

Abstract

In this study, both the feasibility and accuracy of numerical methods in FEMLAB environment to simulate phase change events in a heat storage were studied. Two different storages were built and modelled, and the predictions were compared to experimental data. The results of the measurements followed the predictions rather well. According to the results, the applied models measurements allow a quick and flexible way to design phase change heat storages. Theory and simulationsConsider the heat storage shown in Fig. 1a. In a melting process, heat transfers from the heated walls to the phase change material first by conduction and later by natural convection that accelerates the melting. In both storages, the main heat transfer mode in the solidification process is conduction. The natural convection exists in the liquid-solid http://dx.