| Abstract |
The Helical Screw Expander, a total flow wellhead generator, was tested by the Ministry of Works Development as part of an International Energy Agency Programme of research, development and demonstration of geothermal equipment. Testing assessed both the performance and the reliability of Helical Screw Expander. The isentropic efficiency of equipment was observed to be approximately 40% for loads greater than half full load. The Helical Screw Expander has the potential to extract more power from low enthalpy geothermal fluid than an atmospheric exhaust steam turbine generator set. Further development work to improve the reliability of the shaft seals must be undertaken. |