The medium-deep geothermal exchanger featuring a U-shaped pipe configuration presents an optimal solution for geothermal energy heat exchange due to its capability to deliver higher temperature water

achieve greater heat extraction rates

and maintain minimal flow resistance. A layered analytical model for such exchanger is established based on the theory of thermal resistance in series methods. Experimental results are employed to validate the accuracy of this layered analytical model. By focusing on the Guanzhong Basin in Shaanxi Province as the focal point of research

the model investigates the influence of subterranean stratification in thermal conductivity and volumetric specific heat on the outlet water temperature and heat extraction rate throughout an entire heating period for a 3 000 m deep geothermal exchanger with U-shaped pipe. The findings reveal that the underground thermal conductivity stratification has a significant impact on the heat transfer performance. A simplistic approach using average thermal conductivity

as opposed to a detailed accounting of layered conductivities

results in an overestimation of outlet water temperature and heat extraction rate by approximately 6 % to 15 %. However

specific heat stratification exerts minimal influence on the subterranean heat transfer dynamics. This underscores the importance of considering the effects of underground thermal property stratification in the design and analysis of the heat transfer performance of a medium-deep geothermal exchanger with U-shaped pipe. For precise modeling and results

it is recommended to segment the underground area into at least eight distinct layers.