Optimization and sensitivity analysis of extended surfaces during melting and freezing of phase changing materials in cylindrical Lithium-ion battery cooling

In this paper, the cooling of an 18,650 cylindrical lithium-ion battery is examined. This cell is evaluated by placing the fins on its surface and immersing it in the phase change material. The sensitivity analysis is performed on the dimensions of the fins and their effect on the T-Max of the cylindrical lithium-ion battery and the melting rate of the phase change material is investigated. First, the equations governing are solved. Then, the sensitivity analysis of the fin dimensions is done using the response surface method. Finally, an optimal model is provided for use the heat management system. The results of this study show that the use of phase change material and placing the fins on the cylindrical lithium-ion battery reduce its surface temperature. Sensitivity analysis shows that the length of the fins has a greater effect on the reduction of surface temperature. An increment in the fin size (increasing the height and width of the fins) enhances the average amount of liquid phase change material during the charging process as well as when it is fully charged. Enhancing the distance between the fins also intensifies the amount of liquid phase change material. An increase in the fin height reduces the amount of cylindrical lithium-ion battery temperature during the charging process. Increasing the fin width, however, first decreases and then increases the temperature.

Automated summary

This paper examines the cooling of an 18,650 cylindrical lithium-ion battery by placing fins on its surface and immersing it in phase change material. Sensitivity analysis of the fin dimensions is performed and an optimal model for heat management system is provided. Results show that using phase change material and fins can reduce the battery's surface temperature. Sensitivity analysis reveals that fin length has the greatest effect on temperature reduction. Increasing fin size and distance between fins enhances the amount of phase change material. Increasing fin height lowers the battery temperature, while increasing fin width initially decreases and then increases temperature.