Load-Transfer Approach for Modeling the Cyclic Thermo-Mechanical Behaviour of Energy Piles

Energy piles are subjected to short- and long-term cyclic thermal loads due to their unique role as heat exchangers. Their response to monotonic temperature change has been investigated by various researchers from both experimental and numerical points of view. Yet, their behaviour during cyclic temperature changes remained to be an obscure area to this date. To investigate this knowledge gap, a two-dimensional finite elements model has been developed employing the load-transfer approach coupled with Masing’s Rule. The model has been validated by the results of an in-situ test which involved application of multiple temperature cycles to a full-scale energy pile.