Optimization of energy in oil pipelines covered with nanofibers of phase change materials using CFD

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Department of Chemical Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Ahar Branch, Ahar, Iran

2 Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran

3 CFD Research Division, Advanced Chemical Engineering Research Center, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

4 Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

Currently, storing energy in a suitable form that can be converted and released to the desired state is one of the challenges facing modern technologies. Energy storage not only reduces the mismatch between supply and demand, but also increases the efficiency and reliability of energy systems and plays a very important role in reducing energy loss. In this research, the nanofibers of polyethylene glycol as a phase change material and polyamide 6 as a preservative in pipelines have been simulated in different conditions via COMSOL Multiphysics 5.6 software. For this purpose, the oil is placed inside a tube and a cylindrical tank and the container is covered with a thin layer of polyethylene glycol-polyamide nanofibers. In the following, the thermophysical properties of composite nanofibers of phase change materials in different weight percentages were investigated and the effects of changes in temperature, density, viscosity and thermal conductivity on them were compared. The results of the research showed that the most suitable system for heat management is related to the nanoparticles of phase change materials with the highest weight percentage of polyethylene glycol. Also, the use of nanofibers of phase change materials is very effective in improving thermal management and temperature control and can be used as suitable materials for energy storage and transfer. In addition, with the passage of time, more heat is absorbed by polyethylene glycol and energy storage is done better.

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