Melting of phase change fluid in heat storage capsules by convection

Abstract

Melting of ice in cylindrical capsules by natural and forced convections was studied by flow visualization technique. Surface temperatures were changed by the effect of natural convection in a cylindrical capsule with large diameter. In case of natural convection melting, the process was well simulated by axisymmetric heat conduction analysis when capsule diameters were small. In case of forced convection melting, surface temperatures were considerably scattered and the stagnation point showed the highest value. The shape of the solid liquid boundary became considerably asymmetric.