What is a Thermal Reponse Test?

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What is a Thermal Response Test? And do I need one?

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A Thermal Response Test is used to determine the in-situ thermal ground properties surround the borehole. Three properties are typically evaluated, Average Ground Temperature (DegC), Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) and Thermal Resistance (K.m/W). These values can then be utilised in modelling software such as EED, GLHEPro or GLD to design an accurate borehole array model

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At Aquifer Energy we own all the testing equipment required to run a fully calibrated Thermal Response Test. The Thermal Response Test box is connected up to the top of borehole, internal heating elements (Up to 18kW) provide a source of heat and a circulation pump transmits it around the borehole. Whilst this is ongoing highly accurate temperature sensors are measuring water temperature into and out of the borehole, logging it to the machines onboard datalogger. A minimum 48-hour heating cycle ensures compliance with IGSHPA C448 & the GSHPA Good Practice guidelines and vertical borehole standard. All our thermal response tests come with Calibration Certificates and are professionally interpreted and reported.

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Whilst Thermal Response Tests are traditionally only conducted on larger multi-borehole systems, we are increasingly seeing them done on smaller and mid-sized systems as a way of 'proving' the design, not only ensuring compliance but often reducing the total amount of borehole length that needs to be drilled. Furthermore, we can also assist with the borehole design and update any existing design with the data from our Thermal response test.

 

Whilst running Thermal Response Tests can at first seem daunting here at Aquifer Energy we can support you through the whole project.

If you'd like to know more or simply need some advice, then don't hesitate to get in touch at lawrence@Aquifer.Energy