An Innovative Approach to Controlling Dissolved Oxygen and Corrosion in Corrosive Geothermal Reinjection Lines

Abstract

Two major companies in the Philippines do geothennal energy exploration and drilling. Each has its own geothermal fields to explore and develop. The development of geothermal fields includes the wells, lines and steam cleaning facilities. Steam produced is sent to power generators.

Contracts are written that specify the quality and quantity of steam to be produced and the quantity and quality of condensate to be reinjected. The power generators dictate the quality of steam and the steam producers dictate the quality of the bleed-off to be reinjected into non -pro ducing wells. He a vy penalties are instituted if either producers or generators deviate from specifications in the contract.

CalEnergy's Malitbog Station in Leyte is required to reduce dissolved oxygen (DO) in the reinjection condensate to below 70 ppb. They were encountering difficulties in meeting these requirements in an economical fashion. Global Commercial Trading and Drew Industrial embarked on a project with Malitbog personnel to consistently meet the <70 ppb DO limit at a reasonable cost.