WELLHEAD SCALING PROBLEMS IN GEOTHERMAL POWER PLANTS ADDRESSED USING A NEEDLE VALVE DERIVATIVE

• Main Authors: Reynir S. Atlason, Runar Unnthorsson
• Other Authors: The Pennsylvania State University CiteSeerX Archives
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Subjects: Iceland
• Online Access: http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/summary?doi=10.1.1.661.2108; http://proceedings.asmedigitalcollection.asme.org/data/Conferences/ASMEP/81707/V001T05A009-POWER2014-32303.pdf

One of the most frequent problems in geothermal power plants is scaling. If scaling is allowed to build in the wellhead it can hinder the flow from the well. In this study we investigate how exactly that problem was solved at HS Energy in Iceland. We look at the problem, describe it and how it has been successfully solved. The solution, a valve called the Elli valve, which can be regarded a derivative of the Giffard’s injector, is then described. This valve has been shown to allow for a better flow control, less problems with regards to scaling removal and has economical advantages over other control valves. This solution should allow geothermal power plants dealing with scaling problems to use the presented solution to solve it effectively, in a cost efficient manner. 1.