Heat transfer optimization of a district heating system using search methods

This study investigates the parameters that allow for the effective use of district heating. A basic objective of this study was to find a method for optimizing the location for the installation of satellite boilers based on eliminating high energy losses in the piping. This was achieved employing the Jacksonville Naval Air Station (NAS) as a study model and using a search method utilizing a standard computer spreadsheet program. Use of a computer spreadsheet to perform search methods allows all probable locations for satellite boilers to be analysed in order to find the optimum location or combination of locations to maximize savings. The annual cost of energy lost in the piping eliminated by using satellite boilers was compared to the additional annualized capital investment of satellite boiler installation. The study found that satellite boilers could save energy and costs if located where the demand was high and if separated by long distances from the district heating plant. (C) 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.