Numerical investigation of a PCM-based heat sink with internal fins

The present study explores numerically the process of melting of a phase-change material (PCM) in a heat storage unit with internal fins open to air at its top. Heat is transferred to the unit through its horizontal base, to which vertical fins made of aluminum are attached. The phase-change material is stored between the fins. Its properties used in the simulations, including the melting temperature of 23–25 °C, latent and sensible specific heat, thermal conductivity and density in solid and liquid states, are based on a commercially available paraffin wax.