An Artificial Neural Network algorithm has processed data collected during field testing of an innovative energy wall system to create a tool for the designer to ease the sizing of GeothermSkin providing an indicative estimate of the surface to be equipped with such a system to fulfil, partially or entirely, the building's heating demand.

This study presents the design of a new external-geothermal hydronic heating panel system for an in-service bridge. The method includes both heating system and piping network designs. The required heat flux to prevent ice formation on the bridge top surface was calculated based on the local weather conditions to determine the quantity of heat pumps and size of ground heat loop exchangers (GHEs). In addition, the pipe network was designed based on target pressure loss and common design parameters such as pipe materials and installation types using Taco Hydronic System Solutions software.

This abstract will focus on thermal interactions in urban areas with reference to the case of the city of Turin where, within the project of Metro Line 2 (ML2), the thermal activation of both Cut&Cover and TBM tunnels and of metropolitan stations is envisaged, with the creation of an urban energy geostructure. Due to thermal activation, the actual hydro-thermal conditions may be affected. To understand and evaluate the interaction between the ML2 and the other existing systems, a 3D coupled FE numerical model of the city area crossed by the ML2 tunnels was built and results are illustrated.

Attempts to incorporate heat transfer pipes into tunnel linings in the UK has previously been unsuccessful due to a combination of economics, and insufficient programme time to permit necessary stakeholder engagement and design and construction changes. With awareness and policy support for green energy growing, the the future construction of high speed rail tunnels beneath Manchester and Crewe represents a significant opportunity to revisit the energy tunnel solution in the UK. This paper presents the key findings from a recent case study in this area, focusing on the thermal resource size, stakeholder and consumer engagement, and economic viability.