Mathematical modeling of a small scale compressed air energy storage system

Abstract

Using compressed air to store energy is one of the energy storage methods. In this study, a small scale compressed air energy storage (CAES) system is designed and modeled. The energy storage capacity of designed CAES system is about 2 kW. The system contains a hydraulic pump unit, expansion–compression liquid pistons, valves, a tank, and a control unit. The aim of the designed system is basically to store air under a defined pressure. The designed CAES system is modeled and simulated by MATLAB/Simulink program. Pressure changes in the tank and pistons are obtained. Besides, energy storage capacity of the system for different pressures is investigated in isothermal conditions.