Evaluating and optimizing the geometry of thermal foundation pipes for the utilization of the geothermal energy: Numerical simulation

Geothermal energy is among the types of renewable energies, which has variety of applications nowadays. The main purpose of this research is to design better geometry of heat exchange pipes to be placed into the construction foundation pile that can maximally use the clean energy hidden in the depths of the ground through these pipes and increase the strength and longevity of foundation piles, in terms of structural. Therefore, five heat foundation piles connected in series were exploited for four different geometries. The simulation was performed by ANSYS- FLUENT commercial software, which has high computational accuracy with validation made. The results indicate that the U6 heat exchanger at the depth of 25 m has the maximum efficiency and thermal performance capacity, illustrating the fact that its heat transfer rate is the highest compared to other geometries and then spiral, W, and U geometries have maximum efficiency respectively. Moreover, by increasing the contact area of the pipes and the concrete, the heat transfer rate will increase, and the temperature of the output fluid will be gradually reduced.

Automated summary

Geothermal energy is a type of renewable energy with various applications. By designing better geometry of heat exchange pipes, the efficiency and thermal performance of foundation piles can be enhanced. The study found that the U6 heat exchanger at 25m depth has the highest efficiency and thermal capacity, while spiral, W, and U geometries follow respectively.