Lifetime Predictions for Critical Plant in Geothermal Energy Systems

Abstract

Life extension technology is now a firmly established part of the management of thermal power plant, for providing a for assessing whether a plant is safe to operate beyond its design life, for scheduling plant maintenance or replacement and for determining the risk of failure of critical plant. Although the major damaging process in geothermal power stations is corrosion rather than creep, as in thermal power stations, this paper discusses how life extension technology be applied in geothermal stations. Management procedures required to achieve the desired life extension are outlined.