I understand that a new company, Kelix (www.kelix.com), Tulsa, OK, has developed an innovative new way to enhance heat transfer in geothermal systems employing vertical well bores. The patented technology, called Spiralex, features a vertical well casing into which an inner pipe with helical fins is inserted. The helical fins increase turbulence in the heat transfer fluid, which in turn increases heat transfer. From their presentation, I understand that this technology allows the installer to drill only one well where previously it would require three wells. The cost per well is higher, but the installer drills fewer wells.
The manufacturer is presently developing the technology for the commercial market and residential is not contemplated. However, I suspect that if there is enough interest, they might consider going residential. Check it out.
BTW, I have no financial interest in the company. I just thought it was a neat technology that has broad application in the home building industry. Anything that brings down the overall cost of geothermal systems is okay in my book.
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If I was only about 30 miles closer to Mt. Hood, I would seriously consider tapping into some good geothermal energy. Unfortunately, with a melting temperature of about 260 degrees, I am not sure just how well the polyethylene would handle that application.
I agree, poly would not work at all for geothermal.
Do believe some of the Klamath Falls geothermal installations do get by with CVPC.
Helical tube heat exchanges have been around for over 100 years, the patents are likely for poly production methods.
One technical item in their pitch: Do believe turbullent flow has higher heat transfer than laminar flow, which casts doubt on other claims for GSHP, let alone for geothermal. .
This looks very promising, and makes a great deal of sense. With a 5 to 1 ratio or better, they ought to be going after the res market. One 200 ft vertical bore would cover most reasonable homes.
In my neck of the woods, vertical bore requirements add $3000/ton to a geo hp system. The only question is, how much of that savings will go toward the Kelix product? They don't give out that little detail.