Single bi-temperature thermal storage tank for application in solar thermal plant
US9657966B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 16, 2009 |
| Grant date | May 23, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 13, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E70/30
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Thermocline storage tanks for solar power systems are disclosed. A thermocline region is provided between hot and cold storage regions of a fluid within the storage tank cavity. One example storage tank includes spaced apart baffles fixed relative to the tank and arranged within the thermocline region to substantially physically separate the cavity into hot and cold storage regions. In another example, a flexible baffle separated the hot and cold storage regions and deflects as the thermocline region shifts to accommodate changing hot and cold volumes. In yet another example, a controller is configured to move a baffle within the thermocline region in response to flow rates from hot and cold pumps, which are used to pump the fluid.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.