CFD analysis of a solid sensible heat thermal energy storage using Ansys Fluent

The growing demand for energy and the global shift toward renewable sources underscores the critical need for efficient and scalable energy storage solutions. Among these, Sensible Heat Thermal Energy Storage (SHTES) systems offer a reliable and cost-effective approach, utilizing solid materials to store and release thermal energy through controlled temperature variations. However, optimizing their design and performance remains a key challenge, particularly concerning heat transfer efficiency, pressure losses, and flow distribution. This study employs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations in ANSYS Fluent to investigate the behaviour of a solid SHTES system. Various modelling approaches are explored, comparing porous medium representations with detailed simulations of packed beds and perforated brick configurations. The analysis focuses on evaluating thermal exchange characteristics, fluid dynamics, and computational strategies to gain deeper insight into the physical mechanisms governing heat storage and release. The research encompasses a theoretical review of thermal energy storage systems, an analysis of mathematical models commonly used to describe their behaviour, and a comprehensive discussion of the numerical methodology applied in ANSYS Fluent. Multiple simulation setups are implemented, considering key factors such as turbulence modelling, boundary conditions, and material properties. By examining different storage configurations, this study contributes to the advancement of TES system modelling and optimization, providing a framework for enhancing the integration of renewable energy into power grids and improving the overall efficiency of thermal storage technologies.