Heat transfer characteristics of topology-optimized fins in latent heat storage systems

The application of latent heat storage technology is constrained by the relatively low thermal conductivity of organic phase change materials (PCM). In this study, two topological fins, Var-Top and Ave-Top, were optimized using the objective functions of minimizing temperature variance and maximizing average temperature. Subsequently, three-dimensional models were developed for analysis. The heat transfer characteristics during the melting and solidification processes were compared using the enthalpy-porosity method for the two topological fins and fractal fins. The investigation also explored the variations in these characteristics under different inlet temperatures, inlet flow rates, and inlet directions. The results indicate that topological fins can maintain better temperature performance at a faster phase-change rate and exhibit improved temperature uniformity. The intricate structure of the topological fins limits the influence of natural convection, but the relatively fast melting rate enhances the effectiveness of natural convection to some extent. With increasing flow rate, the phase-change rate of the topology and the temperature uniformity in the solidification stage have significantly improved. While downward flow has a noticeable adverse effect on the heat performance in the melting process, particularly on the temperature uniformity of the topological fins, it is advisable to avoid this situation in practical applications.