Abstract: A thermal energy storage system utilizes a high temperature storage segment having flow passages extending through the storage segment whereby a working fluid can extract energy from the storage system for powering conventional downstream equipment. A mixing manifold cooperates with an outlet manifold for reducing the temperature of the working fluid to a temperature safe for the downstream equipment. The mixing manifold, an outlet manifold, an inlet manifold and a support base for the high temperature storage segment, are all of a high temperature tolerant material allowing the high temperature storage segment to operate at temperatures in excess of 1000° C. and preferably to temperatures above 1400° C. The temperature of the working fluid provided to the conventional equipment can be managed to be below a maximum temperature which in many cases may be about 700° C.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to high temperature energy storage arrangements that utilize electrical heating elements for charging a carbon-based heat retaining core. A high temperature electrically isolating support element is used to support a resistive heating element. The components are designed for extended life in a high temperature thermal core with frequent thermal cycling. The heat retaining core is of graphite or carbon based material that is electrically conductive. The electrically isolating support element reduces leakage current losses while providing high mechanical strength and effective heat transfer from the resistive heating element to the heat retaining core. The contact surface of the electrically isolating support element and the resistive heating element is limited while still providing effective mechanical support. The support element and heating element engage in a manner to locate and position the support element on the heating element.

Abstract: A thermal energy storage system utilizes a high temperature storage segment having flow passages extending through the storage segment whereby a working fluid can extract energy from the storage system for powering conventional downstream equipment. A mixing manifold cooperates with an outlet manifold for reducing the temperature of the working fluid to a temperature safe for the downstream equipment. The mixing manifold, an outlet manifold, an inlet manifold and a support base for the high temperature storage segment, are all of a high temperature tolerant material allowing the high temperature storage segment to operate at temperatures in excess of 1000° C. and preferably to temperatures above 1400° C. The temperature of the working fluid provided to the conventional equipment can be managed to be below a maximum temperature which in many cases may be about 700° C.

Abstract: In graphite based thermal storage units capable of operating at high temperatures, it is advantageous to have an inert nitrogen based atmosphere. Such large storage systems can be heated to temperatures in excess of 1500° C. using embedded graphite based electrical heating elements. In order to reduce possible loss of graphite, particularly from heating elements, small amounts of hydrocarbon gas is added. The preferred gas is ethylene.

Abstract: A thermal energy storage system utilizes a high temperature storage segment having flow passages extending through the storage segment whereby a working fluid can extract energy from the storage system for powering conventional downstream equipment. A mixing manifold cooperates with an outlet manifold for reducing the temperature of the working fluid to a temperature safe for the downstream equipment. The mixing manifold, an outlet manifold, an inlet manifold and a support base for the high temperature storage segment, are all of a high temperature tolerant material allowing the high temperature storage segment to operate at temperatures in excess of 1000° C. and preferably to temperatures above 1400° C. The temperature of the working fluid provided to the conventional equipment can be managed to be below a maximum temperature which in many cases may be about 700° C.