Abstract:
This paper discusses a study that investigated different underground
bulk air heat exchanger (>100 m3/s) design criteria. A literature review
found that no single document exists covering all design criteria for
different heat exchangers, and therefore the need was identified to
generate a guideline with decision analyser steps to arrive at a technical
specification. The study investigated the factors influencing heat
exchanger designs (spray chambers, towers, and indirect-contact heat
exchangers) and the technical requirements for each. The decision
analysers can be used to generate optimized, user-friendly fit-forpurpose
designs for bulk air heat exchangers (air cooler and heat
rejection). The study was tested against a constructed air cooler and
heat rejection unit at a copper mine1. It was concluded that the decision
analysers were used successfully. This tool (decision analysers) can be
used by engineers for the efficient and cost-effectively design of heat
exchangers.
