Classifications

• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
  • F01K—STEAM ENGINE PLANTS; STEAM ACCUMULATORS; ENGINE PLANTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; ENGINES USING SPECIAL WORKING FLUIDS OR CYCLES
  • F01K25/00—Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided for; Plants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for
  • F01K25/08—Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided for; Plants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F22—STEAM GENERATION
  • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
  • F22B1/00—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method
  • F22B1/02—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method by exploitation of the heat content of hot heat carriers
  • F22B1/028—Steam generation using heat accumulators
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
  • F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
  • F28D20/00—Heat storage plants or apparatus in general; Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups F28D17/00 or F28D19/00
  • F28D20/0034—Heat storage plants or apparatus in general; Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups F28D17/00 or F28D19/00 using liquid heat storage material
  • F28D20/0043—Heat storage plants or apparatus in general; Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups F28D17/00 or F28D19/00 using liquid heat storage material specially adapted for long-term heat storage; Underground tanks; Floating reservoirs; Pools; Ponds
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
  • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
  • F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
  • F28F9/22—Arrangements for directing heat-exchange media into successive compartments, e.g. arrangements of guide plates
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
  • F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
  • F28D20/00—Heat storage plants or apparatus in general; Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups F28D17/00 or F28D19/00
  • F28D2020/0065—Details, e.g. particular heat storage tanks, auxiliary members within tanks
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
  • Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
  • Y02B10/20—Solar thermal
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
  • Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
  • Y02E60/14—Thermal energy storage
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
  • Y02E70/00—Other energy conversion or management systems reducing GHG emissions
  • Y02E70/30—Systems combining energy storage with energy generation of non-fossil origin

Definitions

• the present invention relates to systems and methods for storing energy, and for releasing the stored energy for later consumption. More particularly, the present invention relates to a. scalable energy storage system which is eonnectaole to a renewable energy source, e.g., electrical, solar, wind, green, renewable, biomass, etc,, wherein energy is stored in one or more insulated energy storage vessels containing a fluid energy storage medium, and being
• a renewable energy source e.g., electrical, solar, wind, green, renewable, biomass, etc
• the present invention provides scalable- flexible energy-storage system, as well as methods for harvesting, storing and converting the stored, energ to usable electric power. Such goals are achieved in a manner that is suitable for dwellings, or buildings of virtually any size and which are very efficient ' green' and non-toxic.
• a scalable energy storage system that is connectable to an energy source.
• the scalable energy storage system includes one or more insulated energy storage vessels, and/or, a large-diameter piping system, instead of or in addition to the vesseS(s), where each storage vessel lias an inpui and an output and contains a fluid energy storage medium, and a power source in eonimunication with an inpui of each storage vessel, and being connectable to an energy conversion means for converting re stored energy into usable electric power.
• each storage vessel may be connected so as to create serial or parallel fluid circuits.
• the energy source is in fluid communication with the input of each storage vessel, and the energy source may be virtually any energy source, including electrical, solar, wind, green, renewable, and bioraass energy sources.
• the energy storage connections may be simple process pipin arrangements and without typical, hazards (e.g., chemical, storage batteries), in addition, the system may take advantage of whatever energy source is avai lable in an area or locale. In addition to the 'green' energy sources which might be utilized.
• the scalable energy storage system utilises an energy conversion means which is an Organic Rankine Cycle device.
• an energy conversion means which is an Organic Rankine Cycle device.
• the energy storage vessels may be connected serially, wherein the output of a first energy storage vessel is connected to the input of a second, energ storage vessel.
• the energy storage vessels may be connected in parallel, wherein the power source is connected to the input of each energy storage vessel, and the output of each energy storage vessel is connected to the energy conversion means.
• one or more energy storage vessels may be connected serially to create serial links within the parallel arrangement, wherein the power source is connected to the input of each parallel energy storage vessel, and the output of each energy storage vessel serially-connected to the parallel energy storage vessel is connected to the energy conversion means.
• the energy storage medium may be non-toxic.
• the energy storage medium may be a low-viscosity fluid with low heat capacity, and may be water, a water-based liquid, oil (e.g., natural or synthetic hydrocarbon that is applicable for use in high tmeprature environments), an oil solution, glycol, or glycol solutions, among others.
• oil e.g., natural or synthetic hydrocarbon that is applicable for use in high tmeprature environments
• an oil solution e.g., glycol, or glycol solutions, among others.
• the energy source includes one or more of solar energy, wind energy, organic fuels, and others, which may be selected based on their present availability.
• the energy storage medium is heated to
• the energy storage medium is pressurized to no more than 15psi (1.034 bar).
• This arrangement provides an advantage in that the relatively low pressure avoids the imposition of special regulations and building codes which are required when higher pressures are used. This approach, reduces complexity of system design, construction and opertion costs while maintaining required local building code requirements.
• the energy storage medium is heated to a
• the energy storage medium is circulated via an index- flow, e.g., plug-flow, arrangement.
• the carefully-controlled fluid is circulated so as to maintain a thermal, gradient, with little intermixing between the heated fluid which is delivered to the energy conversion means, e.g., ORG, and the cool fluid which is headed away from the energy conversion means.
• This arrangement maintains maximum efficiency with regard to the stored energy.
• the energy storage medium is includes a Reynolds number of approximately 100,000. This provides the advantage of low space velocity of the flows of media through the system whi ch enables the index-flow of the energy-storage medium.
• each energy storage vessel includes one or more baffles for maintaining index-flow through the system.
• baffles provide the advantage of a niore-coiitrolled flow of the energy-storage medium within the energy storage vessels, which further encourages index-flow conditions and efficiency.
• each energy storage vessel includes a spiral baffle for maintaining index-flow through the system.
• a spiral baffle provides an advantage in that the energy storage medium is guide through every part of a eyiitlriea! energy storage vessel, promoting index-flow and efficiency.
• the scalable energy storage system may further include a circulation means, wherein the energy storage medium is circulated in a loop through at least the one or more energy storage vessels and energy conversion means.
• the circulatio means may be one or more pumps steed to transfer the mass of the energy storage medium and the desired velocity of the energy storage medium through the vessels, the energy conversion means and overall system. Gravity is also used to enhance the effectiveness of the circulation means, both pre- and post-energy conversion means.
• the scalable energy storage system may further include an isolation valve between the energy storage vessels and the energy conversion means, wherein the energy storage medium is selectively circulated by the circulation means through, the one or more energy storage vessels and energy conversion means.
• One or more valves may be placed in strategic positions throughout the system in order to selectiveiy-control. flow. This arrangement provides advantages such as the selective flow of the energy storage med ium through particular energy storage vessels, such as those arranged in a particular parallel circuit.
• a method for operating a scalable energy storage system including one or more insulated energy storage vessels, each storage vessel having an input and an output, and containing a fluid energy storage medium and a power source in communication with an input of each storage vessel, and being oonnectab!e to an energy conversion means for converting the stored energy into usable electric power, the method includes the steps:
• This arrangement provides a read source of energy which is not dependent on external factors.
• the method for operating a scalable energy storage system further includes:
• the method for operating a scalable energy storage system further includes
• the step of heating the energ storage medium with t e power source further comprises:
• a saturated steam indicates that the steam and the fluid are at equilibrium with respect to temperature and pressure.
• Figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of a scalable energy storage system, according to the present .invention.
• FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate various serial and parallel arrangements of energy storage vessels for a scalable energy storage system, according to the present invention.
• Figure 3 illustrates a side view of energy storage vessels for a .scalable energy storage system, according to the present invention.
• Figures 4A-4B illustrate an. Archimedes-screw baffle in an energy storage vessel for a scalable energy storage system, according to the present invention.
• Figures 5A-5B illustrate an Archimedes-screw baffle in co-joined energy storage vessels for a scalable energy storage system, according to the present invention.
• Figures 6A-6C illustrate sectional views, from the top and sides, respectively; of a baffle arrangement in an energy storage vessel for a scalable energy storage system, with the sectional view of Fig. 6A along line R-R, according to the present invention.
• Figure 7 illustrates an elevated schematic view of an inlet design and energy storage vessel for a scalable energy storage system, according to the present invention.
• Figures 8A-8B illustrate a sectional view and a side view respectively, of an. Archimedes screw baffle arrangement in an. energy storage vessel for a scalable energy storage system, with the sectional view of Fig, 8A along Sine T-T, according to the present invention
• Figure 9 illustrates a block diagram corresponding to a scalable energy storage system, according to the present invention.
• Figure 10 illustrates a data table corresponding to an embodiment of a scalable energy storage system, according to the present invention.
• Figures 1 1 A- 1 IB ill ustrate some considerations in the construction and performance of vessels for a. scalable energy storage system, according to the present invention.
• Figures 12A-12B illustrate some considerations in the construction and performance of vessels for a scalable energy storage system, according to the present invention.
• Figures 13A-13B illustrate a process and instrumentation diagram according to an embodiment of a scalable energy storage system incorporating one or more energy storage vessels, according to the present invention.
• figures 14A-14B iliustrate a process and instruraeataiioii diagram according to an embodiment of a scalable energy storage system incorporating a long pipe arrangement, according to the present invention.
• the present invention is directed to an energy storage system and methods for storing energy.
• a goal of the present invention is to store an amount of energy such that a known, predictable and dependable constant supply (output) of electrical power is available for a generally- or parti culariy-de fined purpose, whether commercial or private, while utilizing environmentally safe, renewable green energy sources?
• the system and method that are proposed herein are to integrate numerous dissimilar energy-production technologies (e.g., wind, photovoltaic, solar, concentrated solar, biomass, etc.) with a low-temperature electrical power generation scheme, such as Organic Rankin Cycle engines (ORC'sj and with an energy storage system which enables a known, predictable and dependable 24-hour electrical power production rate and output (e.g., MW).
• energy-production technologies e.g., wind, photovoltaic, solar, concentrated solar, biomass, etc.
• ORC'sj Organic Rankin Cycle engines
• an energy storage system which enables a known, predictable and dependable 24-hour electrical power production rate and output (e.g., MW).
• the system's design enables She supply of electrical energy at custom levels (voltage / current, etc.) to meet customized or unique goals.
• Basis for the operation of the integrated system is as follows;
• the concept includes three primary steps;
• the storage of the energ provi des: (a) the means to smooth, variation in ra w energy input, (
• the present invention relates to systems and methods that can decrease a user's dependence on the electrical power grid, and increase the usability and appeal of certain clean and/or green energy sources, which may he quite unreliable on a day-to-day or hour-to-hour basis.
• a scalable energy storage system 10 is connectable to an energy/power source 12,
• the scalable energy storag system 10 includes one or more insulated energy storage vessels 14, each storage vessel 14 having an input and an output, and containing a fluid energy storage medium 16; and an energ source 12 in fluid communication with an input of each storage vessel 14, and being connectable to an energy conversion means 18 for converting the stored energy into usable electric power.
• the energy conversion means 1.8 may take many forms, including an Organic ankine Cycle device, in this figure and throughout the application, the arrows point in the direction of fluid and/or energ flow, from higher energy/temperature to lower energy/temperature. Elements and features of the various systems are not shown to scale.
• FIGS 2A-2C illustrate some of the many variable cofigurations that may be established in accordance with ihe principles of the present invention. For clarity, not every fluid connection coupling is shown, but should be understood as being present in a manner sufficient to provide proper operation of the system.
• Fig, 2A illustrates a simple, linear serial arrangement of the energy storage vessels 14. Accordingly, the output of the first vessel 14 feeds energy storage medium 16 into the inlet of the next vessel 14 in the series. This arrangement may be the most simple to control .
• Fig, 2B illustrates a parallel arrangement of vessels 14, wherein each vessel 14 is connected to the power source 12 and the energy conversion means 18 independently,. Some of the individual connections may not be visible, for clarity.
• FIG. 2C illustrates an arrangement of vessels 14 combining some characteristics of both serial and parallel systems.
• a number of serial arrangeterrorismits 20 are il lustrated in fluid connection with the power source 12 and the energy conversion means I S.
• he serial arrangement 20 is not in direct fluid, communication with the remainder of the vessels 14 shown, which are mostly independent parallel, circuits/conduits.
• a different variation is shown as circuit 22, which combine several serial circuits into an arrangement which exhibits the characteristics of circuits which are generally parallel, in nature, Numerous arrangements are possible, depending on. the type of control desired for the system, and the space available for the system.
• FIG 3 illustrates an exemplary arrangement for connected the vessels 14 to one another.
• the vessels 14 shown are connected serially , wherein the ou tput 24 of a first energy storage vessel. 1.4 is connected to the input 26 of a second energy storage vessel 14.
• the energy storage vessels 1 may be connected in series or in parallel wherein the power source .1.2 is connected to the input .26 of each energy storage vessel 14, and the output 24 of each energ storage vessel 14 is connected to the energy conversion means 18.
• each energy storage vessel 14 connected in parallel, one or more energy storage vessels 4 are connected serially to create serial links 28 within the parallel arrangement 22, wherein, the power source 1.2 is connected to the input of eac parallel energy storage vessel 14, and the output of each energy storage vessel .14 serially- connected to the parallel energy storage vessel is connected to the energy conversion means 18.
• the power source 12 is connected to the input of each parallel energy storage vessel 14 or to the first vessel. 1.4 in a parallel sub-series, and. the output of each serially- connected energy storage vessel 1.4 in a parallel arrangement is connected to the energy conversion means 18.
• a valve 30 may be arranged between the outlet 24 of one vessel 14 and the inlet 26 of an adjoining vessel 1 .
• the valve 30 may be an automatically or remotely- Operated valve, may be a manually-operated valve.
• most embodiments will not include any valves 30 between the storage vessels 14.
• the system. S 0 will require only minimal pumping from the circulation means to circulate the energy storage medium 1 .
• the entire system 10 may rely, in part, on the circulation of the energy storage medium based on a manometer principle or siphon process. This arrangement further saves energy and promotes the overall efficiency and simplicity of the system..
• the energy storage medium 1 may be non-toxic. Additionally or alternatively, the energy storage medium 16 may be a low- viscosity fluid with low heat capacity.
• the energy storage medium may include such fluids as water, water-based liquids, oil solutions, glycol, and/or a glycol solution. Numerous other energy storage medium options are available as well within the spirit and scope of me invention. Water is particularly desirable due to its ready availability and it non-toxiciiy. This may be particularly important if the system 1 is operating in an area having sensitive environmental conditions, in case of a spill of the medium or a leak hi the system.
• the energy source 12 may include a. wide range of clean and/or green energ options, including solar energy, wind power, biomass-generated. energy, organic fuels, and others. Resistance-type healing is a simple and reliable manner to place the energy into the medium 16 in the vessels 14 That is, electric power input to the system 10 may be used to heat electrical resistance co ls in the manner of an electric water heater. Such arrangements are very reliable and may be scaled to meet the very particular demands of each system 10,
• the energy storage medium 1 is heated to no more than approximately 250° F (121° C). A wider range of temperatures may be used as well, such as 90-130° €.
• a condition to be considered when planning such a system is the maximum pressure desired. There are maximum pressures which might be selected that would allow a user to meet/exceed code .requirements for system design; the allowable temperature versus pressure result is a function of the energy storage media, used in the system. This will enable choices in the system design and operation.
• the energy storage medium 16 is pressurized to no more than 15 psi (1.034 bar).
• the energy storage medium 16 is heated- to a temperature less than its boding point, according to the maximum system pressure. Again, a close and careful balance must be struck between temperature and pressure.
• Figs. 4-6 illustrate various embodiments of energy storage vessels 14 which may be used with the inventive scalable energy storage system 10.
• the energy storage medium 16 is circulated via an index-How (or ping-flow) arrangement
• plug flow is a simple model of the velocity profile of
• pl g flow the velocity of the fluid is assumed to be constant across any cross-section of the pipe perpendicular to the axis of the pipe.
• the plug flow model for night lime operation assumes a consistent boundary layer for a developed velocity profile. According to ping flow, there is assumed to be essentiall no back mixing with "plugs" of fluid passing through the system.
• the "plug" represents the boundary between the two types of energy storage media: the first energy storage medium is relatively 4 hoi' and. is ready to be processed through the energy conversion means 18, while the second type is a 'cool * energy storage medium that has already been processed through the energy conversion means 18.
• the first energy storage medium 16 to be cooled wilt flow back out into the energy storage vessels where it will be placed into direct contact with 'hot' energy storage medium 16. If the hot and cool media are permitted to intermix, the hot medium will become cooler, which reduces the potential energy that could be extracted via the energy conversion means 8.
• a controlled plug-flow or index flow, is desired to keep the hot and cold media • from intermixing.
• the plug-flow might be viewed as maintaining a uni form flow of the energy storage medium minimizing mixing between "hot.” and "cool" sections of the fluid media.
• the energy storage medium includes a Reynolds number (Re#) of approximately 100,000.
• Re# Reynolds number
• a broader range of Reynolds numbers may be acceptable tor operating the system 1 , e.g., 250,00(5, but a value of approximately! 00,000 will maintain the desirable plug flow characteristics and promote efficiency via operating the system at targeted, space velocities
• each energy storage vessel 14 includes one or more baffles 32, 34, 36 for maintaining piug-flow/index-flow through the system 10.
• the vessels 16 are arranged to be fluid-tight and very thermaliy-efficient to reduce thermal losses and to promote the maximum efficiency of the system.
• a layer of thermal insulation (not shown but-estimated o he about 4 inches ( ⁇ l0cm) in thickness based on a function of insulation type and application) may he incorporated into ail of the outer surfaces of each vessel 16.
• each energy storage vessel 14 includes a spiral bafik 32 for maintaining index-llow through each vessel 14 and the system.
• the spiral baffle 32 may be further characterized as a iype/fomi of a Archimedes screw.
• fig. 4A illustrates a sectional side view
• Fig. 4B illustrates a to view of a vessel 14 having a spiral, baffle 32 with a center post or divider 38.
• the direction of flow F is illustrated with a number of arrows which might be characterized as a single continuous arrow
• the energy storage medium 16 enters through the inlet 26 near the bottom of the vessel 14.
• the energy storage medium 16 is guided up the spiral baffle 32 (or Archimedes screw) and around a center post 38 in a very orderly and controlled manner, according to index flow principles.
• the placement and configuration of the inlets 26 and outlets 24 may be different from those illustrated, and may be reversed or provided in different arrangements, depending on the internal configuration of the vessels 14 and other factors.
• Figures 5A-5B illustrate a top view and a sectional side view, respectively, of an energy storage vessel 14 similar to that of Figs. 4A-4B, and operating on the same principle.
• the sectional view of Fig. 5 A is taken along line P-P of Fig. 5B,
• the arrangement of Figs, 5A-5B differs from the arrangment of Figs. 4A-4B in that Figs. 5A-5B join two vessels in a co-joined configuration, wit a vertical baffle 34 between.
• the energy storage medium 16 will spiral up the spiral baffle 32 from the Inlet 26, over the vertical bailie 34, and spiral down another spiral baffle 32 to the outlet 24.
• the co-joined arrangement provides a combination of compactness and efficiency in that it promotes plug-flow and high-capacity in a smaller space.
• the fluid medium 1 should he kept at a certain minimum level in each vessel 14 (at least a hig as the vertical baffle 34) in order for the flow of the energy storage medium 16 to be maintained. More details regarding this are provided below.
• Figures 6A-6C illustrate a further variation of the vessel 14 which includes a vertical baffle 34 which extends from one side of the vessel 14 to the other to di vide the vessel 14 into two- main parts.
• Energy storage medium 16 flowing in though the inlet 26 may be directed by a inlet baffle 36 toward the interior of the vessel 14 and over the vertical, baffle .34. Inside the vessel. 14. the energy storage medium is guided by one or more turning plates 39 and an outlet baffle 37 and then to the outlet 24.. With, regard to ail vessels 14, the interior surfaces may be curved and contoured to promote smooth plug-flow (index flow! and. maximum efficiency of the system. 1.0. As illustrated m Fig. 6B and discussed, below, Baffle Height (Bh) is defined as the distance from the- water level (top of the energy storage medium 1.6) in the vessel .14 to the top of the baffle, e.g., vertical baffle 34.
• the interior of the vessel 1.4 may include a number of diffusors 40 associated with the inlet 26 and , and internal baffles, which may be a spiral baffle 32 or vertical baffle 34 or another arrangement.
• Curved suriaces 44 may be included inside the vessel 14 and where the various baffles and aiming plates join thereto, to promote plug-flow (index flow) and to reduce or eliminate dead spots in the energy storage medium 16 and thereby delivery all available energy storage capacity through the system 10.
• FIGS 8A-8B illustrate a further alternati ve embodiment of a vessel. 14 for an energy storage system 10
• Fig. 8A illustrates a section view along line T-T of the side view of Fig. SB
• the energy storage medium 16 flows into the vessel 14 through the inlet 26 and. commences along and guided b a spiral, baffle 32, such as an Archimedes- screw-type arrangement.
• Hie energy storage medium 1.6 is guided through the vessel 14 according to the shape of the spiral baffle 3.2, which tends to maximize the use of the available space inside the vessel 1.4, and thereby maximizes the amount of energy that can be stored therein and extracted therefrom,
• a ramp 29 may be provided to guide the medium 16 up into the vessel 14 and over the outlet 24, which includes a vertical outlet 25 arranged in the center of the vessel 1.4 so that the medium 1 exiting the top of the spiral baffle 3.2 is guided down through the center of the vessel 14 and through, the outlet 24.
• the emphasis is to maximize use of space within the vessel. 1.4 and enable manometer effect of media transfer from one vessel to the next, enabling maximum energy storage and extraction,
• the scalable energy storage system farther includes a circulation means 49, wherein the energy storage medium 16 is circulated in a loop through at least some of the one or more energy storage vessels 14 and energy conversion 18 means.
• a circulation means 49 such as a pump.
• the circulation means 49 may be carefully steed to move the energy storage medium 16 at a defined rate, with intiai start-up of a system, scaled to maintain flow and media inertia at defined rates to promote plug flow and maximum energy storage and extraction. Once power is available from the energy conversion means S, the circulation means 49 may be powered directly firom the closed system, and without reliance on external power.
• the scalab le energy storage system further includes one o more isolation valves 46 (see Fig. 14A, for example) between the one or more energy storage vessels 1 and the energy con version means 18, wherein the energy storage medium 16 is selectively circulated by the circulation means 49 through the one or more energy storage vessels 14 and energy conversion means 18,
• This arrangement permits a great deal of additional flexibility in. the operation of the system 10, particularly where two or more independent parallel circuits 20, 22, 28 of vessel 14 are used to store and circulate the energy storage medium.
• the isolated circuit could be arranged to receive power from the energy source 12 while additional circuits are used to generate power through the energy conversion means. All of this may be accomplished automatically or manually, as desired.
• the scalable energy storage system 10 may be powered through concentrated solar power (CSP) 60.
• CSP concentrated solar power
• This arrangement provides for a slightly different construction in that resistance heating is not necessarily used to heat the energy storage medium 16.
• the CSP units 60 create steam 62 to heat the energy storage medium 1 in the vessels 14,
• the energy storage medium 16, which may be water or other media as described above, may be continually circulated through the vessels 16 until the target power generation temperature of the energy storage medium 16 is achieved.
• a dual heat-exchanger system 64 may be used to maximize the energy transfer from the steam 62 to the energy storage medium 16.
• a loop coil 66 may be used- among the vessels 14 to maintain a uniform temperature through the collection of vessels 14 for deli very to the energy conversion means 18 (e.g., ORG units) and to thereby improve efficiency of the system, in one embodiment, the coil 66 is installed in the last vessel of the system prior to the heated media being delivered to the ORG unit(s).
• the energy conversion means 18 e.g., ORG units
• FIG 10 is a data, table which provides details for a first embodiment with regard, to system design, in particular with regard to the tanks/vessels used in the system.
• Three different vessel area arrangements are illustrated, as Scenario- 1 through Scenario ⁇ 3.
• the discharge pumps to the energy conversion means such as ORG unit(s) may be located below the bottom level of the energy storage medium (e.g., water) In the vessel 1 to induce a siphoning or manometer effect.
• the energy conversion means such as ORG unit(s)
• the energy storage medium e.g., water
• the data of Figure 10 assumes that the area over the baffle is about 1 ⁇ 4 that of the area of half the vessel 14, Baffle Height (Bh) is defined as the distance from the water level (top of the energy storage medium) in the vessel 14 to the top of the baffle, iteration on Re# for baffle height determination. T is is a mathematical approach to determine the height of the baffle for the overilow of water from one side of the tank to the next.
• An embodiment of a vessel 14 according to the information presented in Fig. 10 is illustrated in Figs. 6A-6C. The embodiment of Figs.
• FIG. 6A-6C illustrates a number of baffles which are included in the vessel 14 including a vertical baffle 34, which vertically divides the vessel 14 and extends the effective length of the media flow through the vessel 14. Additional baffles, including an entry baffle 36, an outlet baffle 37 and a number of turning plates 39 provide further control over the flow of the energy storage medium in and through the vessel. 1.4. Such arrangements provide the ability to extract additional energ from the medium 16.
• FIGS. 11 A-l IB are data tables which provide details tor a second embodiment with regard to system, design., particular with regard to the tanks/vessels used in the system. There are several assumptions included with the embodiment of Figs. 11 A-l IB, and it should be clear thai these are example data, tables and are not intended to be limiting.
• - Re# based on narrowest path, for energy storage medium, e.g., water, flow (from center to inner wall of vessel); - Re# is based on channel How (rectangular in shape);
• the discharge pumps to O .C units, energy conversion means are located below the bottom medium level of vessel to induce siphoning effect .
• Exemplary vessels 14, according to an embodiment of Figs. 1. lA-1 IB. are illustrated in Figs, 5A-5B, which correspond to a dual-vessel or co-joined arrangement. Other arrangements may be used as well
• Figures 12A-12B illustrate details for a third embodiment with, regard to system design as illustrated in figures SA nd 8B particularly with regard to the tanks/vessels used in the system. There are several assumptions included with the embodiment of Figs. I2A-12B.
• - Re# is based on channel How (rectangular in shape);
• Inner support stand 38 is assumed to be twice the inlet piping diameter ⁇ implies velocity of medium flow through inner piping is half of inlet piping;
• FIG. 13A-13B illustrate a process and instrumentation diagram according to an embodiment of a scalable energy storage system incorporating one or more energy storage vessels 14, according to the present invention.
• the exemplary system includes one or more level switches 74, pressure vacuum vent valves 50 and level indicator transmitters 72, e.g., one-per- vessel 14.
• the system 10 may include a plurality of pressure indicator transmitters 70, temperature indicators 42, flow control valves 46, flow meters 78, variable speed drives 80 and heat exchangers 76.
• the system may include one or more flow control valves (FCY) 46 and additional flow meters 44 and temperature indicator transmitters 42 located between the vessels 14, between the vessels 14 and the energy conversion means 18, and/or between the energy conversion .means .18 and the vessels 14.
• a surge tank 48 may be included after the energy conversion means 1 8 to compensate for surges in the medium, which may be especially likely during the start and stop of the flow of the energy storage medium.
• the energy storage medium may be divided into two or more smaller flows, such as for delivery to two or more energy conversion means 18.
• One or more pumps 49 may be used to start the flow of the energy storage medium and/or to control the flow of the .medium, and the pumps 49 may be distributed throughout the system as needed.
• VSD variable speed drives
• Such embodiments are presented merely as examples to illustrate the principles of Operation, and not as the so le system and method.
• Figures 13A-13B presents a generic P&ID/Proeess Flow Diagram for application options for systems Slaving vessels/tanks 14.
• the system 10 may be a mechanical system based on fluid flow and data gathering to enable operation.
• Heat Exchanger design is a function of energy source - CSP-powered systems apply a condensing Heat Exchanger design (e.g., shell, and tube) » Photovoltaic Solar/Wind systems apply resistance heating for energy transfer.
• Discharge pumps (pumping water from outlet of last tank to ORG units) to be located below grade of tank foundations to promoie manometer/si phon ei ' fect of mass flow through the tanks.
• ORC unit installed there shall be two feed pumps; one as the primary feed pump and the other as an in-line spare.
• PV'VV - Set Point Pressure for pressure protection shall be less than 15 psig, or applicable code requirement to avoid incurring status as a pressure vessel, system.
• FCV Flow Control Valve
• Control system to be configured to account for hours of energy accumulati on from primary energy source per calendar day of year; for example, operating hours during summer versus the winter are longer for solar based system.
• Planned hours of operation for full power production versus reduced rate for Night Time Operation to be determined daily with corresponding accounting for sunrise and sunset to ramp power supply to user (e.g., the "grid") on a predictive basis.
• Control system to be configured to control system for electrical power production in predictable format ⁇ e.g., Day Time Operational hours to he at a fixed electrical power output, as well as. Night Time Operational hours with minimization of variance (ramp-up and ramp-dowo) to be minimized (control is via water flow to ORC units).
• Ccaitrol system to be fully inte rated with, all data points for acquisition of information, trend charting and history of operation.
• each pump is to be monitored for motor temperature and KW/hr (vvork); in event of increases of either parameter the secondary pump shaii be started and the pump speeds inversed to .maintain fluid flow to OR.C units and a consistent mass flow of the system.
• Figures .14A-.14B illustrate a process and instrumentation diagram according to an embodiment of a scalable energy storage system incorporating a long p ipe 84 arrangement (instead of vessels 1 ), according to the present invention.
• the exemplary system includes one or more level switches 74, pressure vacuum vent valves 50 ami level indicator transmitters 72, e.g., one-per-vessei 14.
• the system 10 may include a plurality of pressure indicator transmitters 70, temperature indicators 42, flow control valves 46, flow meters 78, variable speed drives 80, heat exchangers 76 and pressure control valves 82. Basis:
• Heat Exchanger design is a function of energy source - CSP apply a condensing Heat Exchanger design (e.g.., shell and tube) - Photovoltaic Solar/Wind - apply resistance heating for energy transfer.
• a condensing Heat Exchanger design e.g., shell and tube
• Photovoltaic Solar/Wind apply resistance heating for energy transfer.
• Piping is constructed of material capable to withstand operating pressures and temperatures (e.g., carbon steel, or lined carbon steel).
• Piping line surge capacity to equal five times (5x) of Day Time Operation water flow - space velocity reduced by 5X - location downstream of ORC return / ahead of pumping station.
• Design pressure of system can be increased to desired operating level - higher operating temperature reduces piping diameter doe to increased d ' i across ORC units also implies higher temperature input energy source.
• Discharge pumps (pumping water from outle of last tank to ORC units) to be located below grade of tank foundations to promote manometer/siphon effect of mass -flow through the tanks.
• ORC unit installed there shall, be two possible feed pumps; one as the primary feed pump and the other as an. in-line spare - for this purpose assumes only 2 pumps needed; if two pumps are necessary a third pump would be installed.
• FCV Control Valve
• Heat Exchange design. ⁇ Option is to locate heat exchanger in main loop, or on indi vidual loop for the each ORC unit.
• Control system to be configured to account for hours of energy accumulation from primary energy source per calendar day o f year; for example, operating hours during s ummer versus the winter are longer for solar based systems. Planned hours of operation for full power production versos reduced rate for Night Time Operation to be determined daily with corresponding accounting for sunrise and sunset to ramp power supply to user (e.g., the "grid") on a predictive basis.
• Control system to be configured to control system for electrical power production in predictable format - e.g.. Day Time Operational hours to be at a fixed electrical power output, as well as, Night Time Operational hours with minimization of variance (ramp-up and ramp-down) to be minimized (control is via water flow to ORG units).
• Control system to be fully integrated with all data points for acquisition of information, trend charting and history of operation.
• each pump is to be monitored for motor temperature and W hr (work); in event of increases of either parameter the secondary pump shall be started and the pump speeds inversed to maintain -fluid flow to ORC unite and a consistent mass flo of the system.
• Control of Flow ⁇ Flow to be constant through the system at target rate for Day Time Operation; however, flow to ORC units to change to meet target electrical power production.
• VSD Variable Speed Drive (sometimes referenced as a v Variable Freqaei
• the energy storage vessels whether they are tanks, long pipes or a combination, must, he properly proportioned according to the desired performance of the system.
• the 4-pump arrangement assumes 4 ORG Units at peak power production of 25 M W vv/15% Energy Loss ( flow of energy storage medium is increased to cover)
• ORC units 4 Pump loading information, presented in this application is intended to be exemplary only, and is not presented as a sole manner of pump installation and operation.
• the surge tank is a gathering point for water collection from the ORCs. It is essentially a wide spo in the line (piping) tha acts as a pooling point for water to gather before being pumped to the inlet side of the storage vessels. What is being pumped is the fluid media.
• Performance Values provided in this application are generally pertaining to water as the energy storage medium. However, other energy storage media options could be substituted and their physical properties substituted (e.g., for oil an oil mixture/solution, or a glycol
• the Channel Height (MTe) is when 2q/ e# « ⁇ the channel length (ho)
• Heat Exchanger design is a function of energy source - CSP apply a condensing Heat
• Tanks are constructed of material capable to withstand operating pressures and temperatures (e.g., carbon steel, or lined carbon steel) All processing equipment (Tanks. Piping, Pumps, etc.) to be insulated to minimize- beat loss to surrounding environment - insulation types materials vary
• Surge Tank operating capacity to equal five times (5x) of Day Time Operation water flow
• Design pressure of system (for USA systems) to be up to .1.4.99 psig - not to meet or exceed 15 psig to enable construction of system without requirement to conform to pressure vessel requirements and to promote manometer/siphon effect of mass flow through the tanks.
• PV ' V - Set Point Pressure for pressure protection shall be 1 .99 psig
• FCV Flow Control Valve
• Control system to be configured to account for hours of energy accumulation from, primary energy source per calendar day o f year; for example operating hours during summer versus the winter are longer for solar based systems
• Planned hours of operation for full power production versus reduced rate for Night Time Operation to be determined daily with corresponding accounting for sunrise and sunset to ramp power supply to user (e.g., the "grid") on a predictive basi
• Control system to be configured to control system for electrical power production in predictable format - e.g., Day Time Operational hours to be at a fixed electrical power output as well as, Night Time Operational hours with minimisation of variance (ramp-up and ramp-down) to be minimized (control is via water flow to ORC units)
• Control system to be fully integrated with all data points for acquisition of information, trend charting and histor of operation
• each pump is to be monitored for motor temperature and KW/hr (work); in event of increases of either parameter the secondary pump shall be started and the pump speeds inversed to maintain fluid flow to ORC units and a consistent mass flow of the system Control of Flow - Flow to be constant through the system at target rate for Day Time Operaiion; however, flow to ORC units to change to .meet target electrical power production Governance of flow based on mass balance through the system
• Heat Exchanger desig is a function of energy source - CSP apply a condensing Heat
• Piping is constructed of material capable to withstand operating pressures and temperatures (e.g., carbon steel, or lined carbon steel)
• Piping line surge capacity to equal l ve limes (5.x) of Day Time Operation water flow - spac ⁇ velocity reduced by 5X - location downstream of ORC return / ahead of pumping station
• Design pressure of system can be increased to desired operating level - higher operating temperature reduces piping diameter due to increased dT across ORC units; also implies higher temperature ' input energy source
• Discharge pumps (pumping water from outlet, of last tank to OR units) to be located below grade of tank foundations to promote manometer/siphon effect of mass flow through the tanks
• Heat Exchange design - Option is to locate heat exchanger in main loop, or on individual. loop for the each ORC unit
• Control system to be configured to account for hours of energy accumulation from primary energy source per calendar day of year; for example operating hours during summer versus the winter are longer for solar based systems
• Control system t be configured to control system for electrical power production in predictable format ⁇ e.g.. Day Time Operational hours to be at a fixed electrical power output, as well as, Nig t Time Operational hours with minimization of variance ( ramp-up and ramp-down) to be minimized (control is via water flo w to ORC units)
• Control system to be folly integrated with all data points for acquisition of information, trend charting and history of operation
• each pump is to be monitored for motor temperature and SCW/ r (work); in event of increases of either parameter the secondary pump shall be started and the pump speeds in versed to maintain fluid .flow to ORC units and a consistent mass flow of the system
• Control of Flow ⁇ Flow to be constant through the system at target rate for Day Time Operation; however, flow to ORC units to change to meet target electrical power production.
• a method for operating a scalable energy storage system 10 which includes one or more insulated energy storage vessels 14, each storage vessel 14 having an input 26 and an output 24, and containing a fluid energy storage raedium 16; and a power source .12 in. communication with an input 26 of each storage vessel 14, and being connectable to an energy conversion means 18 for converting the stored energy of the energy storage means 16 into usable electric power, the method includes the steps:
• the system may be operated in a completely automated manner, or may be operated manually by the user. Both the automated system and the manually-operated system may he arranged to monitor the system and provide notificatio regarding numerous characteristics of the system, including which type of power source 12 is operating (e.g., solar, wind, biornass, municipal electric, etc, ...), how much power is being input, temperatures and/or pressures of each vessel 14 or a collection of vessels 14, flow rate for the energy storage medium 16 for one or more vessels 14, how much energy is available in the vessels 14, which vessels 1 are "full” and which are being charged, which valves are open and/or closed, system faults and numerous other parameters.
• type of power source 12 e.g., solar, wind, biornass, municipal electric, etc, .
• the method for operating a scalable energy storage system 10 further includes:
• this process may be performed through an ORC device.
• the method for operating a scalable energy storage system further includes:
• the step of heating the energy storage medium 16 with the power source further includes:
• a saturated steam condition is inherently efficient as both the liquid energy storage medium 16 and the steam (vapor) component of the energy storage medium .16 are at the same temperature and pressure.
• the temperature and pressure condiiioos which may be desired, e.g., at/below 240°C and 1.034 bar, are much more manageable for a user charged with maintaining the system 10,
• a system, and method for a scalable energy storage system 10 which provides modular convenience and full integration with ail known/available power .systems.
• the system provides the benefits of a consistent, power suppl (based on green or clean energies) through a defined time period, e.g., overnight when solar power is not available. This results in a. high-reliability factor with reduced disruptions, e.g., nighttime, weather disturbances. Additional benefits accrue where the energy storage capacity exceeds the planned operational needs.

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• 2012
  • 2012-05-28 WO PCT/US2012/039783 patent/WO2013180685A1/fr not_active Ceased

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