The set-up also allows to take a closer look at the basic methods applied for determining the thermal conductivity of the surrounding soil of the geothermal probe. In near-surface geothermal energy generation the thermal energy stored under the Earths surface is used for heating purposes. The transparent experimental set-up provides an insight into the closed circuit of the heat transfer: it allows a clear view on the evaporation in the heat pipe, the condensation in the probe head and the reflux of the heat transfer medium on the inside wall of the heat pipe. It demonstrates the operation of a geothermal probe with heat pipe principle.
Learning objectives/experiments:
Determination of the amount of heat that can be dissipated in the heat pipe with variation of the thermal load
Determination of the sand's thermal conductivity by means of a thermal response test
Variation of the filling level of the heat transfer medium contained
Examination of the radial temperature profile in a sand sample and determination of the thermal conductivity
Fundamentals of geothermal energy
Operating behaviour of a geothermal probe with heat pipe principle
Fundamentals and energy balance of a heat pump.
