Performance evaluation of ground heat exchanger using novel spirally corrugated pipe geometry—A CFD approach

The implementation of passive technologies in a building for heating and cooling purpose is on high demand in India. The reason to adopt such techniques is to reduce overall energy consumpt ion. Although various studies have been conducted to improve the thermal performance of GHE (Ground Heat Exchanger). However, very few studies have been conducted to demonstrate the effect of cross sectional geometry of the pipe of thermal performance of GHE. Indian research was limited to variables affecting the performance of EAHE and its impact on system efficiency. This study aims to investigate the effect of pipe geometry on the outlet temperature for achieving thermal comfort. Three (Two) different pipe geometries, i.e., circular, and spirally corrugated pipe, were investigated. It is observed that out of two geometries, a spirally-corrugated pipe showed the best temperature reduction during summers as well as the winter season. A temperature drop of 0.11°C for summers and a temperature rise of 0.084°C has been observed in the spiral pipe as compared to the plain circular pipe of 1m length each. Further enumeration also showed that Ground Source Heat Pump systems are suitable for Indian climatic conditions.