A Similarity Model of Specific Heat Loss Determined by Dimensional Analysis

This article describes an innovative method for the determination of heat flow (specific loss; linear density) from a one-metre length twin pipe directly-buried network. Such losses are currently described by applying analytical procedures based on transfer theory. It is rather complicated to accurately express loss using such procedures, due necessity determine individual values thermal resistance. A simpler balance method, as it requires measuring temperature gradient Δt between starting point network and end collection. suitable device must provide high-accuracy measurements temperature. In case very well-insulated distribution pipelines short pipes, be accurate hundredths degree Celsius. impossible install devices fixed equipment every network, networks many kilometres cost appropriate technology. For aforesaid reasons, authors created mathematical model specific dimensional analysis. facilitates identification dimensionless criteria relevant quantities. Functional correlations identified may basis results physical or numerical experiments. this study, database obtained experiments conducted two was used. The output similarity function describing one-meter that applicable various alternatives in relation geometrical, boundary conditions. standard deviation difference proposed criterial equation pre-insulated 0.515 W·m−1.