Performance and economic assessment of large-scale deep-lake cooling systems: A Canadian example. (February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kuyuk, Ali Fahrettin; Ghoreishi-Madiseh, Seyed Ali; Hassani, Ferri P.; Sasmito, Agus P.; Amiri, Leyla; Templeton, Jeffrey
• Is Part Of: Energy procedia. Volume 158(2019)
• Page Start: 43
• Page End: 48
• Publication Date: 2019-02
• Subjects: Renewable energy -- deep lake cooling -- mine cooling -- mine air conditioning -- mine ventilation -- geothermal cooling; Power resources -- Congresses; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power resources; Conference proceedings; Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.egypro.2019.01.033
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1876-6102

Abstract

Abstract: Increasing depth and complexity of recently discovered orebodies are forcing mining companies to deploy highly energy-intensive and technologically challenged mining projects. These challenges usually result in higher energy demands along with heavier draw on infrastructure, power and capital/operating costs. If not tackled innovatively, these challenges can turn into financial liability. Deep underground mine air conditioning systems require elevated energy demands and capital costs especially in deeper mining operations where heat impact of auto-compression, strata and mine machinery necessitate deployment of massive cooling plants costing millions of dollars of initial investment. An alternative solution can be sought by discarding mine heat into a lake/river, should such well-sized and low-temperature body of water be available at the vicinity of the mine site. This study investigates the feasibility of implementation of a lake geothermal cooling system in a real-life anonymous Canadian mine. It shows that significant capital cost savings can be achieved by employing a surface water system, rather than a conventional cooling plant.