CFD model of the airflow, heat and mass transfer in cool stores

A transient three-dimensional CFD model was developed to calculate the velocity, temperature and moisture distribution in an existing empty and loaded cool store. The dynamic behaviour of the fan and cooler was modelled. The model accounted for turbulence by means of the standard k-ε model with standard wall profiles. The model was validated by means of velocity, air and product temperature. An average accuracy of 22% on the velocity magnitudes inside the empty cold store was achieved and the predicted temperature distribution was more uniform than predicted. In the loaded cold store, an average accuracy of 20% on the velocity magnitudes was observed. The model was capable of predicting both the air and product temperature with reasonable accuracy.