Research of Steam Boiler Using High Temperature Heat Pipe Based on Metal Phase Change Materials

In this paper a novel steam boiler using high temperature heat pipe based on energy storage by metal phase change materials is introduced. In a steam drum construction, composed of heat reservoir, high temperature heat pipe, boiler drum, frame, etc., the boiler incorporates solar radiation receiver, heat storage and steam generator into one unit, mainly used for direct steam generation in solar thermal power generation system. Principle of operation and feature of the boiler are introduced. Heating and melting process of the phase change materials (Al-Si eutectic alloy) is simulated with FLUENT software. Compatibility between boiler drum materials and the heat storage medium is analyzed. Results show that the newly developed heat storage boiler can withstand a focused solar energy flux of 400 kW/m² and is well compatible with the heat storage medium. Moreover, the broilers simple in construction, of help in heightening thermal efficiency of solar thermal power generation system and reducing of solar power cost.