| Title | Optimization of Injection Scheduling in Geothermal Fields |
|---|---|
| Authors | Lovekin, James; Horne, Roland N. |
| Year | 1987 |
| Conference | Geothermal Resources Council Transactions |
| Keywords | Reinjection; Tracers; Simulation; Injection; Breakthrough |
| Abstract | This study discussed the application of algorithms developed in Operations Research to the optimization of brine reinjection in geothermal fields. The injection optimization problem is broken into two sub problems: (1) choosing a configuration of injectors from an existing se to wells, and (2) allocated a total specified injection rate among chosen injectors. The allocation problem is solved first. The reservoir is idealized as a network of channels or arcs directly connecting each pair of wells in the field. Each arc in the network is considered to have some potential for thermal breakthrough. This potential is quantified by an arc specific breakthrough index, b, based on user specified parameters form tracer tests, field geometry, and operating considerations. The sum of b values for all arcs is defined as the field wide breakthrough index, B. Injection is optimized by choosing injection wells and rates so as to minimize B subject to constraints on the number o injectors an data total amount of fluid to be produced and reinjected. The use of the various methods is demonstrated with reference both to hypothetical data and an actual data set from the Wairakei Geothermal Field in New Zealand. |