Joule-Flex

Previous studies and developments on Brayton process-based Carnot batteries have so far been limited to (quasi-)stationary considerations in order to determine the overall energy performance and describe the sizes and technologies of the components. The central challenge is now to map the dynamic properties of selected configurations and their thermal components. This allows operational requirements for start times and load changes to be further developed in a targeted manner and harmonised with the requirements of the target markets.

With the successful completion of the planned work on a Brayton battery adapted to operational requirements for large-scale applications on the electricity-heat sector boundary, significant steps will be taken towards new technology options for the energy transition.

Tasks

For pre-selected concepts, existing generic dynamic models are adapted or extended for the thermal components, such as heat accumulators and heat exchangers, so that they describe the transient behaviour of the specific components under changing conditions, such as start-up, shut-down and change of operating states. At the end of this first step, the thermal components are characterised dynamically with the help of the transient models created. Suitable methods from control engineering are used for this. The transient behaviour of the non-thermal components, such as turbomachinery, is mapped in a simplified manner using suitable assumptions.

Dynamic models of the overall systems are created from the component models, with the help of which previously defined parameter variations are carried out with regard to dynamic properties. The results are then compared with the requirements of the target markets and the best concepts are defined as lead concepts for further development in future projects and plans.