Help & FAQ – Global Heat Flow Data Research Infrastructure
Welcome to the Help & FAQ section of the Global Heat Flow Data Research Infrastructure. Here, you'll find answers to frequently asked questions, user guides, and resources to help you navigate and make the most of the portal. If you need further assistance, feel free to contact us.
1. General Questions
What is the Global Heat Flow Data Research Infrastructure?
The Global Heat Flow Data Research Infrastructure is an open-access platform that provides heat flow data from global terrestrial and marine environments. It supports researchers, industry professionals, and educators in accessing, analyzing, and contributing data related to Earth's thermal structure.
Who can use this portal?
The portal is primarily designed for academia and industry, but it is also accessible to government agencies, students, and the general public interested in geothermal research and heat flow data.
Is the portal free to use?
Yes! The Global Heat Flow Data Research Infrastructure follows the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and OPEN data principles, ensuring everyone has free access to all datasets.
2. Using the Portal
How do I search for heat flow data?
You can use the search and filter functions on the portal to browse datasets by location, depth, period, or data source. Detailed instructions can be found in our Quick Start Guide.
In what formats can I download data?
Data is available in multiple formats in the download section, including: TXT, CSV, and Excel for tabular data, Shapefiles (SHP) and Google Earth files (KML) for geospatial analysis.
Can I access data via an API?
Yes! The portal offers API access for automated data retrieval. Visit our API Documentation to learn how to integrate our data into your workflows.
Is there a tool for visualizing data?
Yes! The portal includes an interactive data viewer that allows you to explore and analyze heat flow data directly on the platform.
3. Contributing Data
Can I submit my own heat flow data?<
Yes! We encourage researchers and organizations to contribute their data to the portal. Please review our Data Submission Guide for details on formatting, metadata requirements, and submission procedures.
How is submitted data validated?
All submitted data undergoes a peer-review process conducted by heat flow experts. The portal ensures quality control through an expert review team (core heat flow team) that follows the international scientific standards of the IHFC.
How can I contribute literature references?
Historical publications are crucial for updating the Global Heat Flow Database. If you have access to missing references, please visit our Literature Contribution Page or contact us.
4. Technical & Metadata Information
What metadata is included with the data?
Each dataset includes detailed metadata, such as:
- Source information (original publication, author, institution)
- Data collection method (borehole, marine probe, measurement method for conductivity and temperature)
- Environmental corrections and error margins
Details can be studied in the data submission guidelines, and on the metadata format page.
How do I properly cite the data?
All data, code, or publication in the portal is assigned a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) for proper citation in research publications. Citation formats can be found on the dataset page or in our Citation Guide.
Is the data interoperable with other geoscience infrastructures?
Yes! The data follows international metadata standards for interoperability and is compatible with platforms like EPOS, OneGeology, and PANGAEA.
5. Support & Contact
What should I do if I encounter issues?
If you experience technical difficulties, please check our Documentation or contact our support team at support@heatflow.world
How can I stay updated on new data and features?
Stay informed by subscribing to our Newsletter or following us on Linkedin for updates on new datasets, features, and upcoming events.