Numerical modeling of heat production using geothermal energy for a snow-melting system

This study employed the COMSOL finite element code to conduct numerical analysis of heat collection pipes in a heat collection system in order to simplify the complex heat transfer mechanisms associated with heat extraction. The study focused on heat production modeling and the simulation of heat collection pipes in a stabilized subsurface temperature zone. The measured data show that the temperature stabilizes at 7 °C six meters below the ground surface regardless of the season. Specifically, this paper presents the computations for the heat production that is required in a snow-melting system for eastern North Dakota based on the average climatic data and precipitation using Chapman and Katunich's equation. A heat extraction process that utilizes heat collection pipes was simulated based on the seasonal heat requirements. The results of the numerical analysis also show the effects of the thermal properties of soils and fluid properties for a heat collection system. This study found that higher soil thermal conductivity values and a reasonable volumetric flow rate are favorable conditions for a successful heat collection system in design, and the system is feasible for eastern North Dakota.