PCM-Filled Stainless Steel Balls for Energy Management and Space Saving

In the quest for increased energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint, innovative solutions are key for both households and businesses. In this blog post, we will explore the remarkable application of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in combination with a heat pump and a buffer tank filled with stainless steel spheres containing PCM. This groundbreaking solution not only promotes sustainable energy management, but also significantly enhances hot water storage capacity, effectively reducing the space required for the buffer tank.

Buffer vessel buffer tank - PCM energy storage

PCM and Stainless Steel Balls in Heat Pump Buffer Tank

In high-temperature pressured buffer tanks, the use of stainless steel balls filled with PCMs is gaining traction. These thermal batteries, composed of stainless steel, can be filled with PLUSS savE® PCMs, including both organic materials or hydrated salts. The stainless steel balls are available in various diameters and boast a maximum operating temperature of 95°C, along with a maximum operating pressure of up to 20 bar absolute.

How It Works

The PCM-filled stainless steel balls are added into a water-based buffer tank, working in conjunction with a heat pump system. The heat pump warms the water within the buffer tank, subsequently heating and melting the PCMs enclosed within the steel balls. Effectively you are not only storing sensible heat but also latent heat – meaning storing more energy. When hot water is required, the PCMs release the stored energy by “freezing”, heating the water within the buffer tank. This ingenious process can increase hot water storage capacity by an impressive 4 to 5 times. (depending on specific PCM used)

Advantages of PCM-Filled Stainless Steel Balls in Heat Pump Buffer Tank

  • Increased Storage Capacity: there is a significant boost in hot water storage capacity, providing ample supply when needed.
  • Energy Efficiency: The utilization of PCMs facilitates more efficient energy storage and release, resulting in a lower capacity heat pump instalation, reducing energy usage, costs and a reducing your carbon footprint.
  • Sustainability: This groundbreaking solution embraces sustainable and environmentally friendly materials, effectively reducing environmental impact. The combination of a heat pump, buffer tank, and PCM-filled stainless steel balls offers an innovative and energy-efficient approach to hot water storage and delivery. By implementing this cutting-edge technology, households and businesses can reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and actively contribute to a more sustainable future.

Embrace the future of energy management and space-saving solutions with PCM-filled stainless steel balls, and experience the benefits of enhanced hot water storage capacity, increased energy efficiency, and sustainable practices. Together, let us pave the way to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious world.