Steam energy storage power generation

Can thermal energy storage be integrated into coal-fired steam power plants?

In the FLEXI- TES joint project, the flexibilization of coal-fired steam power plants by integrating thermal energy storage (TES) into the power plant process is being investigated. In the concept phase at the beginning of the research project, various storage integration concepts were developed and evaluated.

Does a direct steam generation solar power plant have integrated thermal storage?

A direct steam generation solar power plant with integrated thermal storage. J. Solar Energy Eng. Transac. 132, 0310141–0310145. doi: 10.1115/1.4001563 Birnbaum, J., Feldhoff, J. F., Fichtner, M., Hirsch, T., Jöcker, M., Pitz-Paal, R., et al. (2011). Steam temperature stability in a direct steam generation solar power plant.

What is direct steam generation?

Compared to conventional concentrated solar power systems, which use synthetic oils or molten salts as the heat transfer fluid, direct steam generation offers an opportunity to achieve higher steam temperatures in the Rankine power cycle and to reduce parasitic losses, thereby enabling improved thermal efficiencies.

What happens during thermal processes in direct steam generation systems?

Of interest are the flow regimes, heat transfer coefficients and pressure drops that are experienced during the thermal processes present in direct steam generation systems, including those occurring in the solar collectors, evaporators, condensers and relevant energy storage schemes during thermal charging and discharging.

Should thermal energy storage be integrated into power plants?

For conventional power plants, the integration of thermal energy storage (TES) into the power plant process opens up a promising option for meeting future technical requirements in terms of flexibility while at the same time improving economic efficiency.

What type of storage system is used in a power plant?

The storage system is based on a Ruths-type steam accumulator with or without integrated PCM. Since the working medium of the power plant process is stored or retrieved, it is a direct storage system. The pressure vessel was designed both for the classic case without integrated PCM and for the innovative approach of integrating PCM capsules.