Computational Intelligence Powered Performance Analysis on Phase Change Heat Storage Air Source Heat Pump System
Caihong Yin1, Ronghua Wu2,3, Hao Zhan3
1Jiaozhou Bureau of Science, Technology and Industrial Information, Qingdao, Shandong 266399, China.
Computational Intelligence and Neuroscience
|August 15, 2022
Summary
This study introduces a phase change material heat storage system using sodium chloride solution to improve air source heat pump performance in cold climates. The enhanced system significantly boosts heating efficiency and reduces energy consumption compared to traditional electric auxiliary systems.
Area of Science:
- Energy Engineering
- Thermodynamics
- Building Science
Background:
- Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) suffer performance degradation in cold climates due to low ambient temperatures.
- Traditional electric auxiliary heating systems are inefficient and costly for low-temperature operation.
- Phase change materials (PCMs) offer potential for thermal energy storage and performance enhancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an ASHP system utilizing sodium chloride aqueous solution as a low-temperature PCM for improved cold-climate performance.
- To model and compare the operating economy and energy-saving potential of the proposed PCM-ASHPs against traditional systems.
- To optimize the PCM-ASHPs using different sodium chloride concentrations for enhanced efficiency.
Main Methods:
- Development of system configuration, unit energy consumption, and economic models for the PCM-ASHPs.
- Comparative analysis of operating economy using computational intelligence methods.
- Simulation and optimization of PCM-ASHPs with varying sodium chloride concentrations (8.5% and 10%).
- Performance evaluation using an actual residential building in a cold region.
Main Results:
- The ASHP system with 8.5% sodium chloride solution achieved a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) of 2.24, outperforming the traditional system's HSPF of 1.83.
- The PCM-ASHPs demonstrated significant energy savings: 19.6% for heating and 38.8% for defrosting compared to traditional systems.
- The system with 10% sodium chloride solution yielded the best operating economy, with an HSPF of 2.33, saving 23.2% in heating and 34% in defrosting energy.
Conclusions:
- The proposed phase change heat storage ASHP system effectively enhances low-temperature performance and operational stability.
- Sodium chloride aqueous solutions, particularly at 10% concentration, are viable and efficient PCM for cold-climate ASHP applications.
- The PCM-ASHPs offer substantial energy savings and improved energy efficiency compared to conventional electric auxiliary systems.
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