Anyone have experience with graphite-based grouts?

by **Choice Mechanical** » Sun Nov 01, 2009 7:26 pm

I just read an article in National Driller that made reference to graphite-based grouts that had much higher thermal conductivity than the bentonite/silica grouts that we currently use. We use thermal grout lite+250 lbs of silica sand for a thermal conductivity of 1.0, whereas the article stated that graphite grouts could exceed 1.6. Never heard of graphite based grouts, can anyone fill me in on cost, ease of pumping, etc? We run a geoloop 40-500 grout pump with a 400' tremie pipe if that makes a difference.

by **iedrilling** » Sun Nov 01, 2009 9:44 pm

We have not had any experience with this type grout. I just found out about it the other day while on Baroid's webpage. I called my supplier and they called Baroid. Supplier was quoted $60.00 per bag. They are going to have a tough time selling it at that price. We are going to continue using the Barotherm Gold grout, unless Baroid can come waaaaay down on price. I'm sure that the graphite is what's running up the cost.

Randy
www.iedrilling.com

by **waterpirate** » Mon Nov 02, 2009 4:06 am

Graphite based grout was developed specifically for thermally enhancing a horizontally bored loop. The i.d. on the directional tool string was not conducive to pumping sand enhanced. It is horribly dusty, but the price is on its way down. It will have to be in the basement to compete with traditional sand enhanced.

by **Choice Mechanical** » Mon Nov 02, 2009 5:10 pm

WOW! Unless that's a 300 pound bag, count me out. Thanks a lot for the info.

by **iedrilling** » Mon Nov 02, 2009 6:37 pm

That was my thought also!

by **waterpirate** » Tue Nov 03, 2009 4:00 am

You are missing the point. If the manufacturer can get the engineering community to embrace this product it will be in the spec book. We will be installing it and someone will be paying for it.