Texas Test Plugs in Geothermal Applications
In geothermal products, Texas Test Plugs are used as access ports to measure the pressure and temperature of the circulating fluid within a ground loop system. These test ports allow technicians to obtain quick, accurate readings without needing to install permanent pressure gauges or thermometers. This saves money and helps insure accurate pressure and temperature readings.
Since the instruments are well protected, accurate readings are obtained; compared to using older instruments that have been in the field where they may be exposed to physical damage or the weather.
Common applications of Texas Test Plugs in geothermal systems include:
- Checking loop pressure: Technicians can insert a pressure gauge probe into the plug to verify that the ground loop has the correct operating pressure. Incorrect pressure can be a sign of a leak or air in the system, which can cause insufficient heating and cooling.
- Measuring fluid temperature: A thermometer probe can be used with a Texas Test Plug to measure the temperature of the fluid entering and exiting the heat pump. This is critical for assessing the system’s performance and efficiency.
- Balancing the system: By taking differential pressure readings across components like the circulating pump, technicians can ensure that the system is properly balanced.
- Filling and pressurizing the loop: Some specialized tools use Texas Test Plugs to safely repressurize the geothermal loop by adding fluid.
- Troubleshooting and diagnostics: Plugs placed at key points in the piping allow for easy diagnosis if a system is underperforming.
A Nordel valve core is often used in hydronic (water-based) systems like geothermal because it is resistant to glycols, which are used as antifreeze in the loop fluid.
For applications where insulation is present, an extended-length test plug (sometimes referred to as a lagg) can be used to ensure the test port remains accessible. Unlike some other brands, Texas Test Plugs extended-length test plugs are a single piece, a more reliable design than two-piece options.