Thermal testing takes place at new hospital site

ENGINEERS are undertaking a series of tests at the site of the planned new Leighton Hospital in Crewe to better understand the potential for the future installation of renewable technologies.

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The Thermal Response Test will analyse the thermal conductivity of the ground for geothermal systems, such as ground source heat pumps.

The test involves drilling a single borehole, up to a maximum depth of 300m, on the land to the north of the existing hospital site.

This site was purchased last year.

A heat exchanger is connected to the borehole and fluid is circulated through it.

The temperature changes in the fluid are measured over time to determine how efficiently the ground transfers heat and supports cooling.