As a result of a research project with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, a new detailed model of a constant-volume fluid storage tank was
created. Separate versions for vertical cylindrical, horizontal cylinders, spherical, and rectangular tanks were created from the original model.
Similar in operation to the TYPE 4 storage tank, this model features an improved mixing algorithm that eliminates the problems associated with the
solution method in Type 4, but is much easier to use than the TYPE 60 storage tank model designed to replace TYPE 4. The model solves the coupled
differential equations imposed by considering the mass in the heat exchanger as well as the mass in the storage tank. Using an analytical solution
to the energy balance equations makes the model faster and more stable than numerical models designed to solve the same problem. The storage tank
model also allows the user to specify 5 immersed heat exchanger alternatives; making it a flexible alternative to the other tank
models.
|
