Work

Numerical analysis of PCM integrated in solar dryers for thermal efficiency

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Solar dryers using phase change materials buffer heat, yet the combined influence of airflow regime and PCM placement on melting remains underexplored. A controlled like-for-like study fixed geometry and PCM properties while varying placement and operating conditions. A 3D transient CFD model simulated a forced-convection dryer with RT28HC over Re = 3000–9000 and inlet temperatures T i = 50–60 °C. Raising either Re or T i shortened melt time, and three-wall coverage melted faster and more uniformly than a rear-wall-only layout. For three walls, melt time dropped from 13 h (50 °C, Re = 3000) to 7 h (60 °C, Re = 9000) (−46 %) for the rear wall it fell from 19 h to 11 h (−42 %). A 10 °C increase in Ti reduced overall melt time by 4 h across Re. Practically, three wall PCM with Re ≥ 6000 at T i = 60 °C achieved reliably 7–9 h melting, enabling late afternoon heat release without auxiliary heating.

Source: Ain Shams Engineering Journal

DOI: 10.1016/j.asej.2025.103847

Authors: Eda Bakır Gür, Erdem Işık, Aynur Uçar

Institutions: Munzur University, Fırat University

Language: English

Topic: Phase Change Materials Research

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,200