From this study:
http://www.worldenergy.org/documents...papers/412.pdf
Paraffin:
coefficient of thermal conduction – solid = .2W/mK
coefficient of thermal conduction – liquid = .15W/mK
Paraffin is a pretty good insulator (both thermal & electrical)
They put the paraffin into vertical SS 2.35" (60mm) tubes to increase surface area.
But they were looking for quick freeze/thaw times.
It seems that a 275gal IBC Tote tank won't have enough surface area? for a daily freeze/ thaw, but do I need that?
If I get enough winter solar gain that on average all the paraffin gets melted, then I think I can make it through 3-4 days of bad solar conditions with useful heat in tank. ?????
BBP