Geochemical Modelling of Plant and Reservoir Processes at the Ngatamariki Geothermal Field

Abstract

This paper discusses two examples of geochemical modelling applied to the plant and reservoir processes at the Ngatamariki geothermal field. The first case simulates the cooling of the geothermal fluid as it flows through a series of heat-exchangers in the Ngatamariki binary plant and aims at characterizing the deposition of sulfide minerals on the heat-exchange surfaces. Modelling results provide indications of the most likely locations for these minerals to deposit as well as their typology and the amount of minerals deposited. The results are relevant in designing suitable maintenance activities for the heat-exchangers and in improving the operational process through increased understanding of deposition types, rates and locations.