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How
Effective Have
The Heat Pipes
Been?
In the
40 or so years since completion of TAPS, the heat
pipes have been in use nonstop. According to
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company, a huge majority
of the VSM's have not moved or shifted, despite
shifting of ground in areas surrounding them. This
alone is a testament to the effectiveness of the
heat pipes. Alyeska uses inferred imaging to
monitor the operation of each individual heat pipe
on a 3 year cycle. Ineffective heat pipes will
appear cooler on thermal imaging, as they should
be hotter than surrounding air. Due to the fact
that these are a charged, pressurized system,
leaks will develop over time and require repair
and recharging. So although additional energy,
like an electric motor, isn't needed to cool the
ground with a heat pipe, routine maintenance is
required. Heat pipes have proven useful in the
arctic to maintain permafrost and protect
structures in many place besides the Alyeska
Pipeline, and are key in the stability and
continued success of TAPS.
Heat Pipes in use to keep ground
frozen below building in Fairbanks, Alaskahttp://si.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OB-FA304_ev_fro_D_20091203181425.jpg |