Geothermal Steam Turbine Plant for Long Term Use

Abstract

Geothermal steam turbines must maintain their viability over the decades in the face of a steam resource which is subject to uncertainties, depletion and change. Geothermal steam is potentially corrosive, erosive and prone to cause buildup of deposits inside the turbine. These problems are addressed, dealing with initial conceptual design, engineering specification, tender evaluation, design by the equipment supplier, manufacture, installation and commissioning. It is concluded that, given thorough and appropriate attention to these phases, a life exceeding the 25-30 years normally expected in the past should be possible.