Phases Mechanism Distribution in a Geothermal Steam Pipe Using Sodium as a Tracer

Abstract

In the horizontal pipelines carrying geothermal steam, the fluids tend to be multiphasic and multicomponent. Therefore, is convenient to know the way these phases are distributed, and also the mechanism whereby the brine and the non-condensable gases are distributed between these phases. In the present work, results of experimental tests carried out in steam pipelines of Cerro Prieto geothermal field are shown, where measurements of pressure drops, mass rates, insulator peripherical temperatures, and weather conditions were taken, in addition to diametral sodium content utilizing a transversable-retractable impact probe between two separated points along the pipe. A mechanism of longitudinal dilution of sodium is proposed and the quantity of condensate used is verified by conventional equations.