A time-step based steam accumulator simulation to define the optimal storage capacity

Abstract:
A central point on the way to the increased integration of renewable energy sources is the possibility of energy storage. Since energy generation from renewable energy sources is highly volatile and dependent on external conditions - not on the consumer - energy storage systems are very important. Steam is used as a medium for many processes, especially in the industry. This paper therefore addresses the dimensioning of steam accumulators, a technology that is gaining in importance. It is emphasised why the integration of a steam accumulator is often the better option for storing oversupplied energy compared to an enlarged steam boiler volume. In addition, a transient simulation programme is presented that specifies and accelerates the dimensioning of steam accumulators. This is an improvement compared to todays practice of only estimating the steam accumulator based on empirical values. The programme uses a consumer load curve and the characteristic values of the steam generator to determine the state of charge of the boiler and of the steam accumulator for each time step. In addition, the calculation procedure is explained for one parameter as an example and the results are interpreted.