Experimental Analysis of Effect of Soil Moisture on Thermal Performance of Earth Air Heat Exchanger

OpenAlex İngilizce

Earth Air Heat Exchanger (EAHX) systems are renewable energy systems based on the use of the high energy potential of the soil. Although it has a simple structure, there are multiple parameters that affect thermal performance. These parameters should be taken into consideration when installing the EAHX, which consists of a buried pipe system and a fan. In this study, the effect of humidification of the soil on which EAHX is placed by placing an irrigation line on thermal performance was investigated. In this study, two EAHX with the different material piping systems are discussed. In the study carried out at different airspeeds, inlet-outlet air temperatures, water temperature and air humidity were measured. It was determined that the decrease in the outlet temperatures of the systems using PVC and metal pipes was 10% compared to the dry condition. As a result of the study, it has been observed that moistening the soil increases EAHX efficiency. When the increase in cooling capacity and the additional cost caused by the irrigation system are compared, it is seen that the installation of soil humidification system is applicable in terms of energy efficiency.