Thermosyphons and Their Use in Engineering
Constructing roads, buildings, dams, rail lines, and hockey rinks in cold climates where the ground is permanently frozen poses considerable challenges. When a structure is placed on top of permafrost ground, the ground can melt and cause it to heave. This often results in structural damage to the building on top.
It does not help to place insulation material on permafrost soil. All that does is starve the soil from natural atmospheric freezing leading to more melting. So, how can structures maintain stability in frigid climates with as little damage to the environment as possible?
Engineers have solved the problem with thermosyphons. These tubular structures are inserted deep into the ground to provide a solid foundation for construction projects. Thermosyphon tubes can be up to eight inches in diameter and can be filled with liquid carbon dioxide (or other gasses) under pressure.
Inside a thermosyphon tube, gravity pulls the liquid down to colder and colder temperatures below. When that liquid hits a specific temperature and pressure combination, it “boils” and begins to evaporate. This causes carbon vapor to rise upward through the tube. It draws heat away from the soil as it does so, letting the soil remain frozen.
The flow that occurs inside a thermosyphon tube is a passive system because it requires no outside energy to drive the process. This action is called convection. The differential in ground temperatures from layer to layer is what drives the system.
Carbon dioxide is not the only substance that can be used. Thermosyphons can be loaded with helium, hydrogen, argon, and neon. It should be noted that while thermosyphons work naturally without an energy driver, some designs employ a cryocooler to deliver even more cooling at the cold reservoir end.
Because they are driven by the natural force of gravity, thermosyphons are limited to use in vertical or near-vertical situations. Also, the distance between the top and bottom of these systems must be sufficiently large to drive the process. Another key factor is the design. A thermosyphon loop must be constructed in such a way as to avoid pockets that can trap the flow of returning warmer air.
Today, thermosyphons see wide use in Alaska, Canada, and Russia. In these locations, extremely cold conditions have required innovative solutions to provide stable foundations for all kinds of buildings, rail lines, and other items situated atop permafrost.
Learn more at https://justinpanagapko.net/
Articles from Justin Panagapko
View blogTechnological innovations have catalyzed fascinating advancements in the way that industries utilize ...
How would various sectors operate without welding? Industries such as Automotobile rely heavily on w ...
Turning abstract ideas into concrete realities is half the fun when it comes to welding. After all, ...
Related professionals
You may be interested in these jobs
-
Market Analyst
Found in: Talent CA 2 C2 - 5 days ago
CB Canada Edmonton, CanadaThe opportunity · We are looking for a Market Analyst to join our Edmonton research team. You will be responsible for the successful collection and dissemination of project information and entering the collected information into Altus' proprietary database. You will liaise with i ...
-
Financial Analyst
Found in: Jooble CA O C2 - 4 days ago
Medisca Pharmaceuticals Inc. Régina, SK, CanadaThe Brandt Group of Companies is currently looking to fill a Financial Analyst position within our Investments group. Based out of our head office in Regina, SK and reporting to the Manager of Investments, this position plays a pivotal role in supporting growth and other key init ...
-
front desk hotel clerk
Found in: Talent CA 2 C2 - 1 day ago
Kingsway Inn Thunder Bay, CanadaEducation: · Expérience: · Education · Secondary (high) school graduation certificate · Tasks · Register arriving guests and assign rooms · Process group arrivals and departures · Take, cancel and change room reservations · Provide information on hotel facilities and services · ...
Comments
lawson nilned
3 years ago #1