CONDENSATION INDUCED WATER HAMMER, NEW ZEALAND GEOTHERMAL STEAMFIELD PIPING CASE STUDIES

K.J. Koorey

Key words: Condensation induced water hammer, piping
Conference: New Zealand Geothermal Workshop
Year: 2019
Session: Session 5.1 – Drilling and above ground technology 2
Language: English
Paper number: 23

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Abstract

The production and transport of steam and hot water from geothermal fields needs careful design and operational management to avoid condensation induced water hammer (CIWH). CIWH occurs when a steam space collapses upon mixing with cooler steam condensate or water. The resulting hammer event can be catastrophic. This paper details a number of cases where CIWH has occurred in New Zealand geothermal fields. Causes, events, and risk mitigations are discussed.

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