Improving thermal performance of freezers using phase change materials

• Published in: International journal of refrigeration 2012-06, Vol.35 (4), p.984-991
• Main Authors: Oró, E., Miró, L., Farid, M.M., Cabeza, L.F.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Analyse thermique; Application commerciale; Applied sciences; Cold storage; Commercial application; Congélateur; Energy; Energy. Thermal use of fuels; Entreposage frigorifique; Exact sciences and technology; Food; Freezer; Produit alimentaire; Refrigerating engineering; Refrigerating engineering. Cryogenics. Food conservation; Thermal analysis; Transport and storage of energy
• ISSN: 0140-7007; 1879-2081
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrefrig.2012.01.004

Food transport and storage at low temperatures is a matter worldwide due to changes of the dietary habits and the increasing of the population. The issue of improving food storage applies at different applications such as commercial freezers or refrigerated trucks. The aim of this work is to improve the thermal performance of commercial freezers using phase change materials (PCMs) under door openings and electrical power failure. A commercial PCM was selected (Climsel-18) with a melting temperature of −18 °C, which is contained in 10 mm thick stainless steel panels placed at different locations in the freezer. During 3 h of electrical power failure, the use of PCM maintained the freezer temperature 4–6 °C lower and that of the frozen products remains at acceptable levels for much longer time. With frequent door openings the benefit of the PCM is evident when the temperature of the cabinet is near the melting temperature of the PCM. ► The thermal performance of commercial freezers using PCM is studied. ► PCM with a melting temperature of −18 °C is used. ► The inclusion of PCM minimizes temperature fluctuations in the freezer.