Performance and environmental improvements of a geothermal power plant by using structural and operational modification techniques

Performance data from a geothermal power plant that uses a dry-type working fluid (n-Pentane) was evaluated. The experimental working conditions of the geothermal power plant were recorded. By using these recorded data the structural and parametrical optimisation of the plant was applied. As a structural modification, the probable performance of the plant was scrutinised by considering the integration of a superheater into the plant. For both present and structurally optimised cases, parametric optimisations were made as an operational modification. During the analyses, the high and low pressure Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs) of the energy converter plant were optimised for varying turbine inlet temperatures and pressures. After comprehensive analyses, it was concluded that superheating the working fluid by structural modification (superheater integration) had a negative effect on the system performance. On the other hand, together with parametric analyses, a considerable improvement in system performance was obtained. For all cases and parametric values, the system was also evaluated in terms of environmental effect.