Application of Thermal Energy Accumulators Based on Paraffin Phase Change Materials in Convective-Vacuum Impulsive Drying Units: A Brief-Focused Overview of Characteristics and Thermal Conductivity Enhancement Techniques

Researchers worldwide are studying thermal energy storage with phase change materials because of their substantial benefits in the enhancement of energy efficiency of thermal drying systems. A two-stage convective-vacuum impulsive drying plant is a technology for the manufacturing of chemical and food products with high quality and low energy costs. Energy consumption during the drying process is the main indicator in terms of economy. In this paper, a brief and focused review of the peculiarities of TEAs with PPCMs and opportunities of their application in such drying systems is done and discussed. The paper described the mentioned manufacturing system. The advantages of paraffin wax and thermal conductivity improvement techniques were demonstrated for their use as heat storage materials in CVID drying units. The results of similar previous studies were presented. The results of the experimental studies conducted by the researchers proved that the use of heat accumulators with PCMs increased the overall energy efficiency of drying systems. Finally, integration of TEAs based on modified PPCMs in the CVID system was recommended to intensify thermal energy, reduce thermal influence on the main indicators of the vacuum pump during the evacuation process, and decrease production costs.