Binary geothermal power plant

Abstract

In this chapter, information about the binary cycle in geothermal power plants (GPPs) is given. Binary GPPs are thermodynamically closest to a fossil-sourced thermal power plant or nuclear power plant. In the binary GPP, the geothermal fluid works on the principle of transferring its energy to a second fluid (n-pentane, isopentane, isobutane) with a low boiling point temperature without flashing. The geothermal fluid, whose temperature is reduced by heat transfer, is sent underground by reinjection. The cycle of the second fluid takes place as an ORC. The second fluid that takes its heat from the geothermal fluid evaporates. It is passed through the turbine and then sent to the condenser. The second fluid is condensed in the condenser and the cycle is continued with the pump. As a result, it is important to determine and explain the amount, location, and causes of equipment’s energy losses in such complex plants.