Help with Geothermal Electric Generator from a hot spring

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of constructing a geothermal electric generation unit utilizing steam from a hot spring, targeting a capacity of 100 kW to 200 kW. Key considerations include the temperature of the hot spring water, with optimal conditions requiring temperatures around 230°F for effective steam generation. Drilling below the surface to access hotter water is essential, as surface temperatures of 120°F may not suffice for efficient turbine operation. Participants also highlight the importance of understanding geothermal source quality and potential maintenance issues related to steam impurities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of geothermal energy principles
  • Knowledge of steam turbine operation
  • Familiarity with drilling techniques for geothermal applications
  • Awareness of geothermal plant maintenance challenges
NEXT STEPS
  • Research geothermal energy extraction methods
  • Learn about steam turbine efficiency and design
  • Investigate drilling technologies for geothermal applications
  • Explore case studies of existing geothermal power plants
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for engineers, renewable energy developers, and entrepreneurs interested in geothermal energy projects, particularly those exploring small-scale geothermal electric generation solutions.

ActMax
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hi, I have access to a hot spring. I was thinking it may be ideal to construct a small geothermal electric generation unit using the steam. Question is, if I have access to the hot spring, is this enough as a source to go ahead with a geothermal generating unit of say 100 kw - 200 kw, which is not real small, but medium small I realize.

Is it practical to drill a little below the surface and construct piping for the steam, direct the steam into a small steam turbine that is in turn connected to several small electric generators?

Is this dependent upon the water temperature of the hot spring, or would any hot spring suffice? Also, if there is a hot spring at the surface, would drilling a 100 ft -250 ft. below surface provide you access with a good source of pressurized steam for the turbine?

Say if the surface water is only around 120 degrees f, shouldn't the water below the surface be even hotter? I was thinking you needed water at around 230 degrees f or so? Point is, if there is a hot spring at the surface, would it not be too much trouble and expense to access the hotter water below that is hot enough to produce steam for the steam turbine?

Also, if anyone could direct me to some people/companies that are actually doing this would be great, thanks in advance.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
Here is a link to a working geothermal plant with some nice information on the project.
http://www.yourownpower.com/Power/

As for your power production capability, that's all dependent on how much heat you can get out, and what the temperature is. There are some geothermal plants that simply pump water down and get steam out, but all the ones I've heard about have both a great geothermal source and also have maintenance issues due to impurities in the steam.

Good luck!
 
Thanks much for your help! If anyone else is interested in supplying info on this would love to hear all I can, thanks again.
 

Similar threads

Replies
18
Views
5K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 74 ·
3
Replies
74
Views
10K
Replies
7
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
11
Views
5K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
21
Views
9K
Replies
5
Views
5K