Geothermal Process Analysis

In this exercise, you will apply fundamental thermodynamic calculations in a process model to estimate the output of a power plant with a two-stage turbine fed by high pressure (HP) and low pressure (LP) geothermal steam inputs. The process model contains parameters describing the effectiveness of a condenser and a cooling tower (CT) and will allow the engineer to analyze how the performance of these units impacts the plant power output. Using this model, the analyst will be able to calculate the sensitivity of the output to varying weather conditions, condenser cleanliness, CT effectiveness, NCG concentration, and will use this information to suggest operational monitoring and actions to ensure the plant output is maximized. In addition, the model will allow for the calculation of the CO2 emissions from the plant.

This module will allow the student to practice the following skills:

• Critical thinking, including working with models and sensitivity analysis

• Communication

• Teamwork

Introduction to the Geothermal Process Model Exercise

Geothermal Process Model (download the Excel file and run locally)