Numerical simulation of standing column well

Abstract

Geothermal energy is well known for its high efficiency and being increasingly used in heating/cooling systems. The standing column well (SCW) is especially efficient, cost - effective, and ideal in areas of favorable hydrological conditions, such as Korea. However, the design of SCW relies on empirical methods. There is a need to complement the current engineering practice with a robust numerical model that can more reliably predict the performance of a SCW. This paper describes the development of the SCW numerical model using a finite - volume analysis program. The model performs the hydro - thermal coupled analyses and simulates the advection, convection, and conduction heat transfer in the porous medium and the borehole. The accuracy of the model was validated through comparisons with field measurements in Korea. Comparisons indicated that the SCW numerical model can accurately predict the performance of a SCW.