Fourier Subsurface Casing

This is a new proprietary technology that is developed fundamentally based on the Fourier Pipe. Using the fundamental pipe flow dynamics explored at Princeton University and the University of Alberta, the Fourier Subsurface Casing was developed to improve the efficiency of Geothermal Flow Loops by reducing heat transfer to the formation, while enhancing the core flow rate and core heat transfer towards to the surface. The scientific publications on this technology follow those of the Fourier Pipe in top-tier international journals, such as Physics of Fluids and Journal of Applied Thermal Engineering [1, 2, 3, 4]. Manipulating the large-scale-motion (LSM) concentrates the flow towards the core,  which decelerates the flow at the walls leading to lower convective heat transfer. The enhanced heat transfer efficiency is further improved by using secondary outer layers for the two-shell casing tubes. This technology lowers the heat loss to casing, which is proven as a technical barrier for feasibility of Enhanced Geothermal Processes. This means up to 10% improvement in the efficiency of these systems through a larger temperature gradient in geothermal processes.