Thermal analysis of forced-air and thermosyphon cooling systems for the Inuvik airport expansion

• Published in: Canadian Geotechnical Journal
• Main Authors: Smith, L. B., Graham, J. P., Nixon, J. F., Washuta, A. S.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Canadian Science Publishing 1991
• Subjects: Inuvik; Inuvik Airport; Ice; permafrost
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/t91-050; http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/t91-050

This paper presents a description of thermal analyses of forced-air ventilation and thermosyphon cooling systems, which were carried out in connection with the design of the concrete raft foundations that support hangars and other major structures to be constructed by the Department of National Defence adjacent to the existing airport near Inuvik, N.W.T. The cooling systems are required to prevent heat from the buildings from thawing the ice-rich permafrost present below the site. The analyses identified those parameters that have the most significant effect on the efficiency of each system. Based partially on the results of the analyses, it was decided to utilize air ventilation for cooling. The system is expected to perform satisfactorily under natural convection; however, the design includes a provision to install air blowers, if this should prove necessary in the future. A number of areas in which further research appears useful have been identified. Key words: permafrost, thermal analysis, raft foundation, hangar, ventilated slab, natural convection, thermosyphons.