In the quest to optimize electric vehicle (EV) performance, particularly in cold climates, researchers have turned to innovative thermal management solutions. A recent study published in the *Journal of Applied Science and Engineering* (translated from Chinese as *Journal of Applied Science and Engineering*) offers a promising approach to enhance battery efficiency in low-temperature environments. Led by Qianhao Yue from the School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering at Xinjiang University, the research focuses on a solar-powered, self-contained heating system that leverages heat pipe technology to maintain optimal battery temperatures.
The study addresses a critical challenge in the EV industry: the significant drop in battery performance in cold weather. “Low-temperature environments drastically reduce the charging and discharging efficiency of power batteries, which affects the reliability and practicality of electric vehicles,” Yue explains. To tackle this issue, Yue and his team developed a multi-physics field non-isothermal flow coupling model using COMSOL Multiphysics software. This model simulates the heat transfer performance of different heat pipe configurations and fluid materials, providing valuable insights for optimizing battery thermal management systems.
The research team compared two key variables: the turning method of the heat pipe (right-angle vs. radian) and the type of fluid material used (motor oil vs. ethylene glycol). Their findings revealed that radian turning and ethylene glycol fluid materials outperformed their counterparts in heat transfer efficiency. “By scoring the final temperature, uniformity of temperature rise, and speed of temperature rise, we found that radian turning and ethylene glycol fluid materials are superior in heat transfer performance,” Yue notes.
The implications of this research are substantial for the energy sector, particularly as the world moves towards carbon peak and carbon neutral goals. Effective thermal management systems are crucial for enhancing the reliability and longevity of EV batteries, which in turn can drive broader adoption of electric vehicles. “This study optimizes the heat pipe model and provides new ideas and methods for research and design in the field of electric vehicle battery insulation,” Yue states.
As the EV market continues to grow, innovations in thermal management technology will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry. Yue’s research offers a compelling example of how advanced simulation tools and creative engineering can address real-world challenges, paving the way for more efficient and reliable electric vehicles. With the findings published in the *Journal of Applied Science and Engineering*, the study provides a solid foundation for further exploration and development in this critical area.