The impact of thermal insulation on cooling energy consumption and optimal insulation thickness for underground tunnel

The provision of mechanical cooling in deep mines comes with a significant energy cost as amount heat transfers from surrounding rock to the airflow. Thermal insulation can be applied reduce such transfer, thereby cutting down load. In this study, impact thermal on reducing flux through was analytically investigated. optimal thickness, life cycle saving and payback period were also evaluated by using method economic benefit is heavily dependent thickness. Results show that between tunnel airflow significantly reduced use insulation, but reduction varies conditions. total associated firstly decreases then increases when thickness increases, implying an Nonetheless, both maximum increased rising temperature, eventually leading period.