Mobile hydro geothermal testing systems and methods

摘要

A fluid flushing and pressurization apparatus for use with geothermal systems, capable of delivering a reversible high-velocity flow of fluid through a system of buried PE pipe without introducing an overpressure condition or water hammer. The apparatus can be utilized with methods for installing, preparing, flushing, filling, testing, and certifying geothermal heating and cooling systems. A portable pumping and testing apparatus can include a high-volume pump, a high-pressure pump, a flow meter, and pressure sensors in wired or wireless communication with a processor or logic controller such that continuous or periodic monitoring of the system can be recorded. The system can be programmed to operate automatically under computer control such that reversal of the flow through the geothermal system does not shock or damage the equipment or buried piping.

主权项

1. A mobile verification system, for use with a geothermal system that includes a ground heat exchanger, one or more heat pumps, and a system of air handling and distribution, the mobile verification system comprising:
a fluid supply reservoir having an input to receive a supply of liquid and a reservoir output; a pressure supply port configured for removable connection to the ground heat exchanger of the geothermal system; an electrically driven pressure-pump having an output in fluid communication with the pressure supply port, and an input in fluid communication with the reservoir output; a pressure sensor coupled to the ground heat exchanger of the geothermal system; a bypass valve coupled to the output of the pressure pump and an input of the fluid supply reservoir, such that, when the bypass valve is in an open configuration, the output of the pressure pump is directed to the fluid supply reservoir; an electronic bypass actuator coupled to the bypass valve and controlled by a bypass signal; a controller in electronic communication with the pressure-pump, the pressure sensor, and the bypass actuator; wherein the controller is configured to activate the pressure pump, monitor the pressure sensor, and maintain a pressure setpoint in the ground heat exchanger of the geothermal system by actuation of the bypass valve such that fluid from the fluid supply reservoir is injected into the ground heat exchanger of the geothermal system if the controller receives a pressure reading from the pressure sensor that is below the pressure setpoint.