Optimum Insulation Thickness, Energy Saving and Fuel Emission Calculation of Aboveground and Underground Pre-Insulated Pipes in Central Heating Systems

Abstract

In our world, where the need for energy increases day by day, it has become crucial to use energy efficiently. One of the most effective methods of energy efficiency is thermal insulation applications. In this study, economic and environmental effects based on optimum insulation thickness of 50, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 mm pipe d.iameters for two different pre-insulated piping systems, aboveground and underground, were calculated. The degree-day method was used in calculations. Balikesir province was chosen for calculations. extruded polystyrene (XPS) and rock wool were used as insulation materials and natural gas, coal, and fuel oil were used as fuel types. In the study, calculations were made for a 10-year life using life cycle cost (LCC) analysis. When all parameters are evaluated in aboveground piping systems, it is calculated that the optimum insulation thickness varies between 5.4 cm and 15.3 cm and the underground piping system is found as 5.1 cm and 12.8 cm. Energy savings have been calculated between 8.69 $/m-year and 281.33 $/m-year for aboveground piping system and between 6.26 $/m-year and 72.43 $/m-year for underground piping system. CO2 emission values were between 2.1 kg/m and 33.06 kg/m for the aboveground piping system and between 2.04 kg/m and 32.14 kg/m for the underground piping system. The SO2 emission ranges from 0.011 kg/m to 0.088 kg/m for the aboveground piping system and from 0.011 kg/m to 0.086 kg/m for the underground piping system.