TEST OF A SELF-REFRIGERATING BENCHMARK
This technical note describes a series of tests made on a small two-phase self-refrigerating device (SRD) designed for use as a surveying benchmark. The SRD is basically just a sealed pipe containing a working fluid. The fluid in the pipe exists in both liquid and gaseous states, and the refrigerating properties of the device rely on the latent heat exchanged in the transition from one state to the other. The self-refrigerating properties of the benchmark are intended to keep it embedded in firmly frozen ground, thus eliminating frost heaving. An SRD identical to the one tested has been installed in ground prone to frost jacking problems and is being monitored. The test results indicate that the pile was moving heat at a rate of approximately 35 BTU per Celsius degree-day of freezing weather (equivalent to about 100,000 BTU annually in Fairbanks). The scope of the test, however, was limited and the test apparatus too crude to yield results sufficiently accurate for use in designing major structures. The knowledge gained from this test could be used in planning more precise tests if more detailed performance data are needed.
- Record URL:
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Corporate Authors:
Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
2301 Peger Road
Fairbanks, AK United States 99701 -
Authors:
- Reckard, M K
- Publication Date: 1983
Media Info
- Pagination: 17 p.
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Benchmarks; Cooling equipment; Frost heaving; Heat exchange; Refrigeration (Structures); Surveying
- Old TRIS Terms: Frost heave; Self-refrigerating devices; Test results
- Subject Areas: Design; Highways; Planning and Forecasting; I21: Planning of Transport Infrastructure;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 00488163
- Record Type: Publication
- Source Agency: Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
- Report/Paper Numbers: AK-RD-83-31
- Files: TRIS, STATEDOT
- Created Date: Sep 30 1989 12:00AM