Thermodynamic study on condensation heat transfer and sloshing of the liquid hydrogen storage

Liquid hydrogen (LH₂), which has been the subject of considerable research and development, is a promising candidate for the transport and storage of hydrogen in future energy systems. Nevertheless, the harsh storage and transportation conditions pose a significant challenge. A precise thermodynamic model is of paramount importance for the accurate simulation of the storage and transportation processes of LH₂. The objective of this study is to propose a modified thermal stratified model that considers condensation heat transfer between hydrogen vapor and the inner wall. The experiment data obtained from the K-site LH₂ tank was employed to introduce a correlation equation of the Nusselt number (Nu). This equation incorporates the influences of the Filling Ratio (FR) and Heat Loss Rate (HLR) on condensation heat transfer. The modified model exhibited an error rate of less than 3%. Subsequently, the modified model was employed in an investigation of sloshing excitation, with a comparison being made with the Saturn IBAS-203 LH₂ storage tank experiment data. The modified model exhibited an error range of 8%. This indicates that the model is highly accurate in simulating long-distance LH₂ transportation at sea.