A Study of Cycling in Geothermal Wells

Abstract

Instability in discharging and shut in geothermal wells, is in general caused by multiple feeds, permeabilty and enthalpy contrasts between feeds being the major controlling factors. The form of cycle exhibited depends on the balance between these factors and the well head pressure at which the well is discharged. for evidence of tip l e feeds and degree of permeability. instability are described by output and/or downhole temperature and pressure profiles. Interpretation of these measurements lows fluid source during instability to be determined and permeability of lower feed to be estimated. Any efforts to improve well performance are limited by economics and the technology of carrying out the operation.