CFD simulation of a novel planar heat pipe for battery cooling and heating in electric vehicles
Clepcea, Bianca-Irina (2025)
Kandidaatintyö
2025
School of Energy Systems, Energiatekniikka
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi-fe2025052048147
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi-fe2025052048147
Tiivistelmä
This thesis investigates the efficacy of a novel planar heat pipe cooling system for enhancing the performance and lifespan of electric vehicle batteries. Inappropriate thermal management poses a significant challenge to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, potentially leading to capacity degradation, safety hazards, and reduced battery life. This research aims to address these concerns by developing and evaluating a highly efficient and cost-effective passive cooling solution utilising planar heat pipes.
The study involves the development of a 3D computational model to simulate the thermal behaviour of a representative battery module. This model will be used to analyse the performance of the proposed planar heat pipe system under various operating conditions, including rapid charging and discharging cycles, and exposure to extreme ambient temperatures. The research will also encompass the design and optimisation of the planar heat pipe system, considering factors such as working fluid selection, wick structure, and overall geometry.
The findings of this research are expected to provide valuable insights into the potential of planar heat pipes for effective battery thermal management. By demonstrating the advantages of this innovative cooling technology in terms of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ease of integration, this research aims to contribute significantly to the advancement of electric vehicle technology and accelerate the transition towards sustainable transportation.
The study involves the development of a 3D computational model to simulate the thermal behaviour of a representative battery module. This model will be used to analyse the performance of the proposed planar heat pipe system under various operating conditions, including rapid charging and discharging cycles, and exposure to extreme ambient temperatures. The research will also encompass the design and optimisation of the planar heat pipe system, considering factors such as working fluid selection, wick structure, and overall geometry.
The findings of this research are expected to provide valuable insights into the potential of planar heat pipes for effective battery thermal management. By demonstrating the advantages of this innovative cooling technology in terms of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ease of integration, this research aims to contribute significantly to the advancement of electric vehicle technology and accelerate the transition towards sustainable transportation.