Numerical Analysis of a Solar Air Heating System Using Sensible heat Storage

Sensible heat storage is an effective method for improving the efficiency of solar energy utilization. This paper examines solar thermal energy storage systems that utilize a water tank in a practical setting (Sfax, Tunisia). The study conducts a numerical investigation of the thermal performance of the heating system using CFD techniques based on the finite volume method, with water employed as the sensible heat storage medium. A solar air heating system that incorporates thermal energy storage (TES) with water provides numerous benefits, thanks to the distinctive properties of water as a storage medium and the effectiveness of solar air heating. With a high specific heat capacity of 4.18 kJ/kg. K, water can store significant amounts of thermal energy per unit mass, making it an ideal material for retaining heat from solar air heating systems. Additionally, water can efficiently transfer heat to the air when needed, allowing the system to release stored energy effectively. This ensures reliable heating even during periods when solar radiation is absent, such as at night or on cloudy days.