Lämpökeräytyminen

Lämpökeräytyminen, also known as heat accumulation or thermal storage, refers to the process of storing thermal energy for later use. This can be achieved through various physical means, including storing heat in materials that change their phase or in substances that simply increase in temperature. The goal of lämpökeräytyminen is to capture excess heat generated at one time and release it when needed, improving energy efficiency and reducing reliance on primary energy sources.

Common methods for lämpökeräytyminen involve using water, molten salts, or phase change materials (PCMs). Water is a widely used medium due to its availability and relatively good heat capacity. Large water tanks can store significant amounts of heated water for space heating or domestic hot water. Molten salts are often employed in concentrated solar power plants, where they can store thermal energy at high temperatures generated by sunlight. Phase change materials absorb and release heat during their transition between solid and liquid states, offering a compact way to store thermal energy at a specific temperature.

Lämpökeräytyminen plays a crucial role in optimizing energy systems, particularly in renewable energy applications. It helps to bridge the gap between intermittent energy generation, such as solar or wind power, and the demand for heat, which can be more constant. By storing surplus energy, it allows for its utilization during periods when generation is low, thus enhancing the reliability and economic viability of these systems. Applications range from large-scale industrial processes to residential heating and cooling systems.