| Title | Enhancing Thermal Efficiency in Super-Hot Geothermal Systems: Optimizing Premium Connections for Advanced Vacuum Insulated Tubulars |
|---|---|
| Authors | Corey DUFRENE, Jerome SFEIR, Elizabeth CAMBRE, Axel PIERRE BOIS |
| Year | 2025 |
| Conference | Stanford Geothermal Workshop |
| Keywords | Vacuum Insulated Tubing, VIT, EGS, Enhanced Geothermal, AGS, Advanced Geothermal, Geothermal, thermal insulation |
| Abstract | As the geothermal industry progresses towards exploiting energy from super-hot rock formations, maintaining thermal efficiency within wellbores becomes increasingly critical. A significant challenge lies in the thermal efficiency loss at the connections of Vacuum Insulated Tubulars (VITs), where the lack of vacuum insulation allows for heat transfer. This issue becomes more pronounced in extreme temperature environments, where the materials used for insulators in connection points are not rated for the elevated temperatures encountered. In response to this challenge, the focus has been placed on decreasing the length of the premium connection, a crucial component in preserving the structural integrity of VITs. By shortening the connection length, the surface area exposed to non-insulated conditions is minimized, thereby reducing thermal losses. This technical enhancement is vital for maintaining the overall efficiency of geothermal systems, particularly in super-hot rock applications, where even minor inefficiencies can result in significant operational challenges. The research details the general design modifications made to the premium connections and presents data showcasing the improved thermal performance achieved through these adjustments. The findings indicate a substantial improvement in the ability to maintain higher temperatures within the wellbore, ultimately contributing to more efficient energy extraction and extending the operational lifespan of geothermal systems in high-temperature environments. This advancement marks a significant step forward in the design and application of VITs for advanced geothermal technologies. |