A Technical Evaluation of Pumping Vs. Naturally Flashing Geothermal Well Production

Abstract

A study has been completed which demonstrates that, for parameters and conditions typical of current state of the art geothermal electrical power generation, there is a very high probability that pumping will reduce the production capabilities of an otherwise naturally flashing two phase flow well. The effect of pumping is shown to be primarily dependant on reservoir temperature and resource productivity. Pumping becomes less favorable as temperature increases and productivity index decreases. The parametric models used in this evaluation include reservoir temperatures of 335°F and 400°F and productivity indices of 1000 and 3000 LB/HR/PSI. The results of the analysis show pumped wells generally having reduced electrical power production capabilities when compared with unpumped flashing wells with the same reservoir conditions. The results also indicate that at a very low temperatures and high reservoir productivities pumping may increase the net production capabilities.