| Title | Gravity-Head Geothermal Energy Conversion System |
|---|---|
| Authors | Matthews, Hugh B.; McBee, Warren D. |
| Year | 1982 |
| Conference | Geothermal Resources Council Transactions |
| Keywords | Power Generation; Production; USA; Rankine Cycle; Heat Exchangers; Downhole Pumps; Steam; Operating Designs; Turbines; Enthalpy; Temperature; Brine Pumps |
| Abstract | A novel electric power generating system for low temperature hot water geothermal resources is described. This so-called "gravity head" system is a binary plant with the primary heat exchanger in the production well to a depth of 2000 feet. This configuration results in a novel heat engine cycle which eliminates the "pinch effect" in the primary heat exchanger and the working fluid feed pump and provided a major decrease in brine pumping power. The net effect is a significant increase in the net electric output power over a "conventional" binary plant under equivalent conditions and costs. |