An operation strategy for using a ground heat exchanger system for industrial waste heat storage and extraction

A ground heat exchanger system is applied as a way to improve the heat recovery ratio in a project using industrial waste heat recovery for district heating. In order to meet the requirements of industrial processes, the outlet water temperature of the system should be strictly controlled within a range, but the heat transfer power varies with the warming or cooling of the soil. An operation strategy named block by block is implemented and a corresponding model is established. In this strategy, the total area of the system is divided into several blocks. The water flows by a specific combination of blocks at any given time, ensuring the outlet water temperature is relatively stable. By simulation, it is concluded that the strategy is fit for the practice of industrial waste heat storage and extraction.