Technical Experiences of Brine Injection Pumping Stations in El Salvador's Geothermal Fields

Abstract

In the history of Berlín and Ahuachapán geothermal fields, injection has always been an important and complex issue to consider. The growing injection capacity demand and low wells injection capacity have resulted in the design and installation of brine injection pumping stations in both geothermal fields. This paper describes the main experiences acquired during the design and operations of these pumping systems. These experiences were obtained from the injection pumping station of Ahuachapán Geothermal Field, a injection pumping test and a projected injection pumping station in Berlín Geothermal Field. The main issue and problem to consider in a pumping station design is the silica scaling. This matter can be carefully discussed with pump manufacturers through a well defined quality management plan specifically detailed for the project.