REHAU
Renewable energy specialist REHAU is demonstrating the concept of Tunnel Energy Lining to extract energy from underground tunnels for use in above ground construction.
The company’s expert team is explaining how loops of polymer absorber pipe, connected with REHAU fittings, can be incorporated inside pre-fabricated tunnel lining segments to extract excess heat energy either from the surrounding soil (ground source application) and/or the tunnel operation (cooling the tube).
The company’s expert team is explaining how loops of polymer absorber pipe, connected with REHAU fittings, can be incorporated inside pre-fabricated tunnel lining segments to extract excess heat energy either from the surrounding soil (ground source application) and/or the tunnel operation (cooling the tube).
Using case studies from projects already completed in underground tunnels across Europe, REHAU is setting out the proven benefits of the technology, which not only cools the tunnels by extracting the excess heat but also provides a valuable source of renewable energy for nearby residential and commercial buildings.
Energy extraction involves inserting loops of polymer pipework within a steel mesh or cage which gets positioned inside the segment mould before concrete is poured. Once the segments have been installed via the TBM machine to complete rings the loops are joined using a permanent compression sleeve fitting at the radial and circumferential segment joints.
When these loops are activated, heat energy from the ground and from the operations taking place within the tunnel is transferred to the fluid circulating within the pipework and carried to the surface where it is extracted via a conventional heat pump.
This concept of absorber pipes inside segment lining future proves the tunnel construction against temperature rises and can also provide political and environmental benefits by turning infrastructure projects into green energy sources.
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