Project

FlexBlue '25 research project

KIT Innovative storage solution from kraftBoxx

Demonstrator with active PCM multi-layer heat storage with
booster heat pump in combination with a combined heat and power unit, an adsorption chiller and a Cold Storage.

Objective
Test of various hydraulic circuits to optimize the overall system in order to achieve maximum flexibility.

  • 6,000 liter Cold Storage
    Incl. cold iso and sheet metal jacket for outdoor installation
  • 1,900 heatSel Xl ATP 6
  • Operating temperature -10° to 50 °C
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Demonstrators at the IAI
The hydraulic and implementation concepts for the demonstrator at the IAI have been drawn up. The necessary measurement and control technology was identified.

The components have been dimensioned, selected and procured and are currently being assembled. Completion is scheduled for Easter 2025.

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Demonstrator IAI
Schematic layout of the refrigeration system

An initial amortization analysis for the IAI demonstrator
was carried out with

  • real measurement data on load profiles at IAI, the yield from the IAI PV system (64kWp), and exchange prices from 2024,
  • characteristic values and the temperature-dependent (non-linear)
    EER of the new KKM
  • and the PCM stratified storage simulation model of the
    plant (with idealizing assumptions).

Result
Peak shaving, reacting to flexible exchange prices and maximizing
PV yield utilization can amortize the additional costs for the active storage at the IAI. However, the IAI demonstrator was not dimensioned according to economic efficiency aspects. It is intended to serve as an experimental field for various use cases.

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KraftBoxx system storage tank
Delivery by crane from the 6,000 liter Cold Storage tank,

FUNDING NOTICE
The project “FlexBlue – Flexible cooling supply systems against the backdrop of increasing decarbonization” is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection.

Project partner:
News:
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kraftBoxx power to heat system, system integration of renewable energies with the kraftBoxx
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KIT research project FlexBlue
Delivery and installation of the refrigeration system with storage next to the KIT building.