THE USAGE OF GROUND-COUPLED HEAT EXCHANGERS IN SUBTROPICAL CLIMATES

Abstract

This study aims to identify the feasibility of using a ground-coupled heat exchanger system for air conditioning in subtropical regions. Geothermal systems are used effectively in cold climates, but little explored in hot and humid climate regions, although they show potential for passive air-conditioning environments. The tubes were installed in Southern Brazil, in Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná, which has temperatures of 0ºC in the winter and 40ºC in the summer. The methodology for the research was organized as follows: bibliographic research and geological characterization of the site, system sizing, installation of 22 meters of a 300mm PVC tube, 4 meters depth, and subsequently measurement and data collection on temperatures with use HOBO U10-001 Data Logger. The research was held from March to October 2016. The results showed that at external temperatures of 30ºC, the system was able to cool on average 6ºC, reaching peaks of 7ºC in the temperature of air exit to the environment. At temperatures below 6ºC, the system was able to heat on average 10ºC, with peaks of up to 11ºC. Based on the results, it is concluded that a buried pipe system is a viable alternative for passive climate control in subtropical climates