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A Comparison of Open Versus Closed Systems in Thermal Storage Applications
Abstract
The use of thermal storage, by its very nature,
requires a large storage vessel. Depending
upon the technology employed, this can vary
from as little as 1.6cuft./ton-hour, up to
15cuft./ton-hour.
The result can be storage tanks with volumes
into the millions of gallons.
The majority of the technologies on the market
today employ an atmospheric (open) storage
tank, while a limited number use a closed
storage tank, operating at system pressure.
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the
relative advantages and disadvantages of both
methods.
The comparison will encompass the following:
1. Equipment and Installation Costs
2. Mechanical Design
3. Pumping Requirements
4. Control Requirements
5. Water Treatment
Citation
Salbodkin, A. (1990). A Comparison of Open Versus Closed Systems in Thermal Storage Applications. Energy Systems Laboratory (http://esl.tamu.edu); Texas A&M University (http://www.tamu.edu). Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /6612.