A thermal store is only as good as its control: temperature profiles give the state of charge, and the control system decides when to charge from cheap electricity and when to discharge to the process or turbine.
Digital twins and predictive analytics track losses, fouling and degradation.
Key facts
- Key signal
- Temperature profile → state of charge
- Systems
- PLC, DCS, SCADA, EMS
- Dispatch
- Price- and demand-driven
- Analytics
- Losses, fouling, degradation
Instrumentation & control12
- Temperature sensors
- Pressure transmitters
- Flow meters
- Level transmitters
- Heat meters
- Energy meters
- PLC and DCS
- SCADA
- Distributed temperature monitoring
- Automated charging and discharging
- Plant performance monitoring
- Remote operations and predictive analytics
Control functions6
- Charge scheduling against tariffs
- Discharge to process setpoints
- Thermocline / stratification management
- Freeze and over-temperature protection
- Alarm management and interlocks
- Performance reporting
Related calculators
Calculators are available to staff / admin only.
Related topics
- ElectricalGrid connection, transformers, HT/LT switchgear, heater power control, VFDs, UPS, earthing and protection.
- Operations & MaintenanceCharging and dispatch operations, preventive and predictive maintenance, and lifecycle asset management.
- Engineering & DesignFeasibility, basic (FEED) and detailed engineering plus system integration for every type of heat storage plant.
Project & partnership desk
Planning Instrumentation & Automation?
Tell us your heat demand, site and timeline — BARREL engineers, suppliers and partners will help you scope it.