Thermal accumulator (definition)

Thermal accumulator is a device or system designed for temporary accumulation and storage of thermal energy obtained during the operation of a heating system or other heat sources. The main function of a heat accumulator is to accumulate excess heat during periods of excess and release it during periods of shortage, thereby ensuring more efficient use of energy resources and increasing the energy efficiency of the heating system.

Heat accumulator: main components and operating principle

1. Coolant - usually water or special coolants circulating through the battery system and heating up during the operation of heating equipment or other heat-generating devices.
2. thermal insulation - materials that ensure minimal heat loss and retain it in the battery for a long time.
3. Heat exchanger - an element through which heat is transferred from the coolant to the storage medium of the battery (for example, water or solid materials).
4. Control and monitoring systems - may include temperature sensors, valves to regulate coolant flow, as well as automation systems to optimize battery operation.

Functions:

• Heat accumulation — collection and storage of excess heat during periods of its availability.
• Heat release - transfer of accumulated heat to the heating or hot water supply system at times when additional heat flow is required.
• Stabilization of the system — reduction of temperature fluctuations and energy consumption levels due to more uniform loading of the heating system.

Application of thermal accumulators:

The heat accumulator can be installed in various heating systems, including individual boiler houses, central heating systems of buildings, as well as in solar and wind power plants to store and use excess heat. thermal energy. They play an important role in increasing energy efficiency and saving resources, especially in conditions of seasonality and fluctuations in heat consumption. But the main function is still considered to be increasing the safety level of the boiler circuit, as a capacity for relieving boiler voltage when overheating.

The heat accumulator replaces three-way valve and microcontroller in heating systems with solid fuel boiler, allowing excess heat to accumulate, but also regulating the supply of coolant to the heating circuits with forced circulation.