Geothermal Turbine Power Maximization

by Zachary Davis

Submitted : Spring 2012

Alternative forms of renewable, clean energy are having a major impact on society today. Geothermal power plants harness the seemingly limitless supply of internal heat that the Earth has. Underground highly pressurized super-heated water is forced to the surface where it is partially vaporized due to temperature and pressure differences. This “flashed” vapor is used generate power through revolutions of an electrical turbine. This turbine operates optimally when the pressure differential across it is maximized.

Using the mass of flashed vapor as well as the temperature differential of incoming water to the flashing container, the power generated was calculated for the range of temperatures between 377K and 450K. This project examines the optimal temperature/pressure at which to flash the incoming geothermal water to generate the maximum power generated for use. Analyzing the potential of renewable clean power generated from plants such as these is a worthwhile endeavor with the ever increasing energy demands of society.

[ Back ]