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Geothermics

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A brief overview is given of the geological characteristics of each region of the state as they relate to potential geothermal development. Those exploration methods which can lead to the siting of a deep exploration well are described. Requirements and techniques needed for drilling deeper higher temperature exploration and production wells are presented. Electrical generation, direct utilization, and indirect utilization are reviewed. Economic factors of direct use projects are presented. A general guide to the regulatory framework affecting geothermal energy development is provided. The general steps necessary to gain access to explore, develop, distribute, and use geothermal resources are outlined. (MHR)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper discusses the potential for geothermal energy use in the central part of Southern Poland, such as the availability of thermal aquifers and the techniques for putting the latter to practical use. The geological and geothermal features of the region are presented within the context of the existence of aquifers containing geothermal resources that could be used in space heating. Also discussed are the three main geological units where thermal waters are known to exist: the Carpathians, the Miechow Trough, and the Silesian-Cracow Monocline. Particularly favourable hydrogeological conditions exist in the Inner Carpathians, in the Podhale Trough, where there is already one geothermal company using geothermal energy, Geotermia Podhalanska S.A. Equally interesting from the geothermal point of view are the areas north of the Cracow-Tarnow ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Using the Laser-Fluorescence technique, an investigation was made, adopting the standard mix method, on trace uranium concentrations in hot spring water and geothermal water from Lishan region, and in tap water from some major cities in Shanxi province. Totally 40 samples from 27 sites were investigated. Measurement showed that the tap water contains around 10"-"6 g/L of uranium, whose concentrations in both hot spring water and geothermal water are 10"-"5 g/L. Most of samples are at normal radioactive background level, some higher contents were determined in a few samples

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The main objective of the present study is twofold: (i) to analyze thermal loads of the geothermally and passively heated solar greenhouses; and (ii) to investigate wind energy utilization in greenhouse heating which is modeled as a hybrid solar assisted geothermal heat pump and a small wind turbine system which is separately installed in the Solar Energy Institute of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey. The study shows 3.13% of the total yearly electricity energy consumption of the modeled system (3568 kWh) or 12.53% of the total yearly electricity energy consumptions of secondary water pumping, brine pumping, and fan coil (892 kWh) can be met by using small wind turbine system (SWTS) theoretically. According to this result, modeled passive solar pre heating technique and combined with geothermal heat pump system (GHPS) and SWTS can be economically preferable to the conventional space heating/cooling systems ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Separate abstracts were prepared for individual papers. (MHR)

Science.gov (United States)

GEOTHERMAL TECHNOLOGIES LEGACY COLLECTION - Related Links Geothermal Technologies Legacy Collection Help/FAQ | Site Map | Contact Us | Admin Log On Home/Basic Search About...

Science.gov (United States)

GEOTHERMAL TECHNOLOGIES LEGACY COLLECTION - Contact Us Geothermal Technologies Legacy Collection Help/FAQ | Site Map | Contact Us | Admin Log On Home/Basic Search About...

Wastenet

... Geothermal Energy Equipment in Finland on Environmental Expert Find and compare a variety of geothermal energy equipment in finland on the world's largest environmental ...

Science.gov (United States)

and Renewable Energy EERE Home | Programs & Offices | Consumer Information Geothermal Technologies Program Search Search Help Geothermal Technologies Program HOME ABOUT...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Introduction of geothermal heat pump systems, which depend on temperature differential, is investigated for urban areas, which have large energy demands. Results of the surveys on the current situations of geothermal heat pump (GHP) systems indicate that they have already numbered 300,000 units in USA and totaled more than 50,000 units in Switzerland and Northern European countries, and that they are increasing at an annual rate of higher than 10%. The results also indicate that introduction of these systems are well feasible in Japan, which generally has better topographical conditions than American and European countries, and the GHP system with vertical ground heat exchanger is investigated for its topographical and environmental considerations. These systems could annually abate approximately 52 million tons of CO2 (4.3% decrease), if disseminated to all households. They are also expected to help control the heat island phenomenon, and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This article examines the effects of competition of geothermal energy production with other technologies. The topics of the article include near-term market growth, cause for cautious optimism, limits to development of geothermal energy production, economic arguments for development of geothermal power plants, the effects of a competitive market on industry survival.

Science.gov (United States)

...2010-10-01 false Who must post a geothermal bond? 3214.10 Section 3214...MINERALS MANAGEMENT (3000) GEOTHERMAL RESOURCE LEASING Personal and... § 3214.10 Who must post a geothermal bond? (a) The lessee...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This is an internal DOE Geothermal Program planning and control document. Many of these reports were issued only in draft form.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Studies of basic binary geothermal cycles utilizing mixtures of hydrocarbons have shown better performance than for pure fluids for a moderate temperature (360/sup 0/F) resource. However, a loss is net geofluid effectiveness (watt-hours net plant output/1bm geofluid) results when the geofluid outlet temperature is limited to temperatures in excess of 160/sup 0/F to alleviate a silica precipitation problem. This study examined three working fluids consisting of binary mixtures of hydrocarbons to see if use of regenerative preheating techniques such as turbine exhaust recupation and/or turbine bleed could recover the loss in geofluid effectiveness for a 160/sup 0/F geofluid outlet temperature. Results showed that with the most promising of the three working fluids a turbine exhaust recuperator alone is sufficient to recover all the lost effectiveness while maintaining the geofluid outlet temperature at 160/sup 0/F. A brief study to investigate ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Department of Energy (DOE) and its predecessors have conducted research and development (R&D) in geothermal energy since 1971. To develop the technology needed to harness the Nation's vast geothermal resources, DOE's Office of Geothermal and Wind Technologies oversees a network of national laboratories, industrial contractors, universities, and their subcontractors. The following mission and goal statements guide the overall activities of the Office of Geothermal and Wind Technologies. This Federal Geothermal Program Research Update reviews the specific objectives, status, and accomplishments of DOE's Geothermal Program for Federal Fiscal Year (FY) 1999. The information contained in this Research Update illustrates how the mission and goals of the Office of Geothermal and Wind Technologies are reflected ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A one-dimensional thermal model is derived to describe the temperature field around a vertical borehole heat exchanger (BHEx) for a geothermal heat pump. The inlet and outlet pipe flows are modeled as one, and an effective heat capacity is added to model the heat storage in the fluid and pipes. Parameter estimation techniques are then used to estimate various parameters associated with the model, including the thermal conductivity of the soil and of the grout which fills the borehole and surrounds the u-tube. The model is validated using test data from an experimental rig containing sand with known thermal conductivity. The estimates of the sand thermal conductivity derived from the model are found to be in good agreement with independent measurements.

Science.gov (United States)

Use of geothermal resources for generating electricity is briefly analyzed. Results obtained from optimization of the thermodynamic cycle implemented in the secondary coolant circuit of a binary geothermal power station and the parameters of its primary heat carrier circuit are presented.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Washington's geothermal potential is discussed. The following topics are covered: exploration, drilling, utilization, legal and institutional setting, and economic factors of direct use projects. (MHR)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Geothermal energy appears as a viable economic alternative among the different renewable energy sources. The French bureau of geological and mining researches (BRGM) is involved in several research and development programs in the domain of geothermal energy and underground reservoirs. This document presents the content of 5 programs: the deep hot dry rock system of Soultz-sous-Forets (construction and testing of the scientific pilot, modeling of the reservoir structure), the development of low and high enthalpy geothermal energy in the French West Indies, the comparison of the geothermal development success of Bouillante (Guadeloupe, French West Indies) with the check of the geothermal development of Nyssiros (Greece) and Pantelleria (Italy), the development of the high enthalpy geothermal potentialities of Reunion Island, and the underground storage of CO{sub ...

Science.gov (United States)

This report discusses the following: (1) improving models of vapor-dominated geothermal fields: the effects of adsorption; (2) adsorption characteristics of rocks from vapor-dominated geothermal reservoir at the Geysers, CA; (3) optimizing reinjection strategy at Palinpinon, Philippines based on chloride data; (4) optimization of water injection into vapor-dominated geothermal reservoirs; and (5) steam-water relative permeability.

Science.gov (United States)

... PRODUCTION OF TIGHT OIL-GAS BEARING ROCKS, AND IS ALSO EMPLOYED FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF GEOTHERMAL RESERVOIRS. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A state-by-state review of major geothermal-development activities during 1982 is presented. It also inlcudes a summary of recent drilling and exploration efforts and the results of the 1982 leasing program. Two complementary sections feature an update of geothermal direct-use applications and a site-by-site summary of US geothermal electric-power development.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This 2001 edition of the guide to UK renewable energy companies examines the geothermal heat pump sector, and discusses the technology involved, installations of geothermal heat pumps, the activity in the UK market with increased interest in UK geothermal heat pump products from abroad, and developments in the building sector. The UK government's increased support for the industry including its sponsorship of the Affordable Warmth programme, and the future potential of ground source systems are discussed.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Geothermal heat pump systems necessitate a comprehensive approach to geology and building facilities in order to be energetically useful and efficient. Cooperation with geothermal experts should be sought at an early projecting stage in order to obtain reliable data. Geothermal data and the technical facilities of the building must be matched for the project to be both effective and efficient. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The commercialization of geothermal energy resources consists of a sequence of exploration, development, and utilization activities. Each of these activities are beset by both generic and project specific technical, environmental, and institutional constraints which must be adequately resolved before geothermal operations can be conducted. This report presents a summary of selected environmental activities conducted during the early planning stages of geothermal resource commercialization. Three representative activities are elaborated upon. These include preliminary environmental planning for geothermal energy development in the Medicine Lake Highlands of California; potential alternatives for non-electric use of the geothermal resource at East Mesa in Imperial County, California; and site specific studies of the impacts from using East Mesa geothermal fluids ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report discusses the topic geothermal resource assessment and its importance to laymen and investors for finding geothermal resources for direct-use applications. These are applications where the heat from lower-temperature geothermal fluids, 120 to 200/sup 0/F, are used directly rather than for generating electricity. The temperatures required for various applications are listed and the various types of geothermal resources are described. Sources of existing resource data are indicated, and the types and suitability of tests to develop more data are described. Potential development problems are indicated and guidance is given on how to decrease technical and financial risk and how to use technical consultants effectively. The objectives of this report are to provide: (1) an introduction low-temperature geothermal resource assessment; (2) experience from a series of recent ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Success in geothermal development can be defined as the ability to produce geothermal energy at compatible energy prices to other energy sources. Drilling comprises usually the largest cost in geothermal development, and the results of drilling is largely influencing the final price of geothermal energy. For 20 geothermal fields with operating power plants, the ratio between installed capacity and the total number of well in the field is 1.9 MWe/well. The drilling history in 30 geothermal fields are analyzed by plotting the average cumulative well outputs as function of the number of wells drilled in the field. The range of the average well output is 1-10 MWe/well with the mean value 4.2 MWe/well for the 30 geothermal fields studied. A leaning curve is defined as the number of wells drilled in each field before the average output per well ...

Science.gov (United States)

Various methods to analyse the effect of a non-isotherme water injection on the pressure evolution during a test on a double geothermal well are investigated. Then, several types of injection test are simulated with experimental data to examine the condit...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This is an internal DOE Geothermal Program document. This document contains summaries of projects related to exploration technology, reservoir technology, drilling technology, conversion technology, materials, biochemical processes, and direct heat applications. [DJE-2005

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Geothermal energy is one of the more promising renewable energy technologies because it is environmentally benign and, unlike most renewable energy sources, can provide base power. This report provides an assessment of the research and development (R&D) work underway in geothermal energy in the following countries: Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United Kingdom. While the R&D work underway in the US exceeds the R&D efforts of the other countries, the lead is eroding. This erosion is due to reductions in federal government funding for geothermal energy R&D and the decline of the US petroleum industry. This erosion of R&D leadership is hindering commercialization of US geothermal energy products and services. In comparison, the study countries are promoting the commercialization of their geothermal energy products and services. As a result, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs), often referred to as geothermal heat pumps (GHPs), offer an attractive option for heating and cooling residential and commercial buildings owing to their higher energy efficiency compared with conventional systems. GSHPs have been used for four years in the Turkish market, although they have been in use for more years in developed countries. The purpose of this study is to present an energy and exergy analysis of a GSHP system with a 50 m vertical 1.25 in. nominal diameter U-bend ground heat exchanger. This system was applied to a 65 m"2 room in the Solar Energy Institute, Ege University, Izmir, for the first time at the university level in Turkey. The Institute, built in 1986, has a livable floor area of 3000 m"2 and uses passive solar techniques. The heating and cooling loads of the room studied were 3.8 and 4.2 kW at design conditions, respectively. The system was commissioned in May 2000, and performance ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Late 1994, the Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium (GHPC) was launched as a non-profit collaborative effort between the United States Department of Energy, US electric utilities and the GeoExchange (geothermal heat pump) industry to make ''geothermal heat pumps'' a significant component of the HVAC industry and avoid 1.5 million metric tons of carbon equivalent per year. The goal was to create a self-sustainable GeoExchange market. This report offers a summary of some of the lessons learned and an overview of some of the programs major accomplishments.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The topics covered in this session include: slimhole testing and data acquisition, theoretical and numerical models for slimholes, and an overview of the analysis of slimhole data acquired by the Japanese. The fundamental issues discussed are concerned with assessing the efficacy of slimhole testing for the evaluation of geothermal reservoirs. the term reservoir evaluation is here taken to mean the assessment of the potential of the geothermal reservoir for the profitable production of electrical power. As an introduction to the subsequent presentations and discussions, a brief summary of the more important aspects of the use of slimholes in reservoir evaluation is given.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The data on the multilayer operation of the objects, located in the climatic conditions of the central area of Russia and equipped with the geothermal heat-pumping systems of the heat supply are presented. The results of the analytical studies on evaluating the geothermal heat-pumping systems of the heat supply integration efficiency into the structure of the energy supply system, prevailing in the country, are presented

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The engineering and economic feasibility of using the geothermal resources in East Mesa, California, in a new corn processing plant is evaluated. Institutional barriers were also identified and evaluated. Several alternative plant designs which used geothermal energy were developed. A capital cost estimate and rate of return type of economic analysis were performed to evaluate each alternative. (MHR)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A dual-boiling isobutane cycle was selected for the present 5-megawatt (5MW) Raft River Pilot Plant to utilize the lower-temperature geothermal resources (near 300F). This study represents a second effort directed toward the design of an improved binary geothermal electric plant suitable for utilization of the lower temperature resources. 7 refs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This work, carried out by the parliamentary office for the evaluation of scientific and technological choices on request of the French National Assembly and Senate, takes stock of the present day situation and technical perspectives of development of renewable energy sources and of research needs of the French industry in this domain: 1 - renewable energies: key-technologies for the energy supply of developing countries and for a rational consumption in transportation systems and accommodations of developed countries (energies technically different from fossil or nuclear energies; fundamental energy sources for a developing world; different national goals in Europe depending on the available natural resources and on the political realities; a minor interest in France for the domestic power generation but a major interest for transports, residential and tertiary sectors and export); 2 - priority choices given to the French renewable energy resources: renewable electricity (photovoltaic, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The humidification dehumidification desalination process is viewed as a promising technique for small capacity production plants. The process has several attractive features, which include operation at low temperature, ability to utilize sustainable energy sources, i.e. solar and geothermal, and requirements of low technology level. This paper evaluates the characteristics of the humidification dehumidification desalination process as a function of operating conditions. A small capacity experimental system is used to evaluate the process characteristics as a function of the flow rate of the water and air streams, the temperature of the water stream and the temperature of the cooling water stream. The experimental system includes a packed humidification column, a double pipe glass condenser, a constant temperature water circulation tank and a chiller for cooling water. The water production is found to depend strongly on the hot water ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Sustainable development of geothermal resources is the key to prolong the commercial life of geothermal fields. This paper uses two well-known geothermal fields in China, with long histories of production, to demonstrate how sustainability can be quantitatively evaluated, and to highlight the essential differences between sustainable and non-sustainable development schemes. After examining the complex nature of sustainability evaluation, fuzzy synthetic evaluation is applied as a tool for the quantitative sustainability rating of geothermal reservoirs. The evaluation procedures include systemic criteria selection, weighing, individual criterion evaluation and finally final multi-criterion decision analysis evaluation. The sustainability of a limestone reservoir in the urban sector of Tianj...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Binary geothermal plants were investigated for providing electrical power for MX missile bases. A number of pure hydrocarbons and hydrocarbon mixtures were evaluated as working fluids for geothermal resource temperatures of 365, 400, and 450/sup 0/F. Cycle thermodynamic analyses were conducted for pure geothermal plants and for two types of coal-geothermal hybrid plants. Cycle performance results were presented as net geofluid effectiveness (net plant output in watts per geofluid flow in 1 bm/hr) and cooling water makeup effectiveness (net plant output in watts per makeup water flow in 1 bm/hr). A working fluid containing 90% (mass) isobutane/10% hexane was selected, and plant statepoints and energy balances were determined for 20MW(e) geothermal plants at each of the three resource temperatures. Working fluid heaters and condensers were sized for these plants. It is concluded that ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Geothermal energy resources are found in many countries. A reasonable and efficient utilization of these resources has been a worldwide concern. The application of geothermal heat pump systems (GHPS) can help increase the efficiency of using geothermal energy and reduce the thermal pollution to the earth surface. However, this is only possible with a proper working fluid. In this paper, a non-azeotropic working fluid (R290/R600a/R123) is presented for a GHPS where geothermal water at 40-45{sup o}C and heating network water at 70-80{sup o}C serve as the low and high temperature heat sources. Experimental results show that the coefficient of performance (COP) of a GHPS using the working fluid is above 3.5 with the condensation temperature above 80{sup o}C and the condensation pressure below 18 bar, while the temperature of the geothermal water is reduced from 40-46{sup o}C to ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

A thermodynamic analysis of a hybrid geothermal heat pump system is carried out. Mass, energy, and exergy balances are applied to the system, which has a cooling tower as a heat rejection unit, and system performance is evaluated in terms of coefficient of performance and exergy efficiency. The heating coefficient of performance for the overall system is found to be 5.34, while the corresponding exergy efficiency is 63.4%. The effect of ambient temperature on the exergy destruction and exergy efficiency is investigated for the system components. The results indicate that the performance of hybrid geothermal heat pump systems is superior to air-source heat pumps.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A detailed component-based simulation model of a geothermal heat pump system has been calibrated to monitored data taken from a family housing unit located at Fort Polk, Louisiana. The simulation model represents the housing unit, geothermal heat pump, ground heat exchanger, thermostat, blower, and ground-loop pump. Each of these component models was 'tuned' to better match the measured data from the site. These tuned models were then interconnect to form the system model. The system model was then exercised in order to demonatrate its capabilities.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Acid fluids in geothermal reservoirs are rare. Their occurrence in geothermal systems associated with recent volcanism (Tatun Sumikawa, Miravalles) probably indicates that the geotherml reservoir fluid was derived from volcanic fluid incompletely neutralized by reaction with feldspars and micas. Superheated steam containing HCl (Larderello, The Geysers) forms acid where it condenses or mixes with liquid at moderate temperatures (325 deg. C). Cryptoacidity occurs at Los Humeros where HCl acidity is formed and neutralized without reaching the surface. (author). 28 refs, 9 figs, 2 tabs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Why pay for energy when there`s a free stockpile of it right under your feet? With the help of a geothermal heat pump system, one can extract that energy from the ground and put it to good use, lowering heating and cooling costs. From private homes to public schools and fast-food restaurants, an increasing number of establishments are turning to geothermal heat pump systems for space conditioning. Experts say 1998 is already proving to be the best year yet for the technology, and they foresee an even more promising future. Some examples of geothermal energy use are given.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Many mining regions in the United States contain extensive areas of flooded underground mines. The water within these mines represents a significant and widespread opportunity for extracting low-grade, geothermal energy. Based on current energy prices, geothermal heat pump systems using mine water could reduce the annual costs for heating to over 70 percent compared to conventional heating methods (natural gas or heating oil). These same systems could reduce annual cooling costs by up to 50 percent over standard air conditioning in many areas of the country. (Formatted full-text version is released by permission of publisher)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Condensing curves are presented for a number of two-component mixed hydrocarbon working fluids which are potentially usable in binary geothermal cycles. Performance of geothermal thermodynamic cycles incorporating these fluids has been evaluated under separate cover; two figures summarizing the results of those evaluations have been included here for continuity. The purpose of this report is: first, to document the condensing curves which were used in the mixed fluid cycle analyses, and second, to provide background useful in the preliminary evaluation of heat rejection systems for advanced geothermal electric power plants utilizing mixed hydrocarbon working fluids. Some concluding remarks are presented.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sandia National Laboratories manages the US Department of Energy program for slimhole drilling. The principal objective of this program is to expand proven geothermal reserves through increased exploration, made possible by lower-cost slimhole drilling. For this to be a valid exploration method, however, it is necessary to demonstrate that slimholes yield enough data to evaluate a geothermal reservoir, and that is the focus of Sandia`s current research. Sandia negotiated an agreement with Far West Capital, which operates the Steamboat Hills geothermal field, to drill and test an exploratory slimhole on their lease. The principal objectives for the slimhole were development of slimhole testing methods, comparison of slimhole data with that from adjacent production-size wells, and definition of possible higher-temperature production zones lying deeper than the existing wells.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Analytical and numerical methods have been used in this investigation to model the behavior of geothermal systems under exploitation. The work is divided into three parts: (1) development of a numerical code, (2) theoretical studies of geothermal systems, and (3) field applications. A new single-phase three-dimensional simulator, capable of solving heat and mass flow problems in a saturated, heterogeneous porous or fractured medium has been developed. The simulator uses the integrated finite difference method for formulating the governing equations and an efficient sparse solver for the solution of the linearized equations. In the theoretical studies, various reservoir engineering problems have been examined. These include (a) well-test analysis, (b) exploitation strategies, (c) injection into fractured rocks, and (d) fault-charged geothermal reservoirs.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Detailed geothermal studies of deep drill holes provide insights to heat transfer processes in the crust, and allow separation of different factors involved, such as palaeoclimatic and structural conductive effects as well as advective fluid flow effects. We present high resolution geothermal results of the 2516m deep Outokumpu Deep Drill Hole in eastern Finland drilled in 2004-2005 into a Palaeoproterozoic formation with metasedimentary rocks, ophiolite-derived altered ultramafic rocks and pegmatitic granite. The down-hole temperatures have been logged five times after end of drilling and extend to day 948 after drilling. The hole is completely cored (79% core coverage) and thermal conductivity measurements were done at 1m intervals. The geothermal results on temperature gradient, thermal...

Science.gov (United States)

The geothermal reservoirs currently being exploited commercially have few common geological characteristics. For example, the Geysers field is in ...

Science.gov (United States)

Samples of geothermal scale formed from Magmamax No. 1 and Woolsey No. 1 wells in the Imperial Valley, Calif., were exposed to concentrated and dilute solutions of common laboratory reagents. The time of exposure and temperature of the reagent were also varied. Several reagents easily dissolved significant amounts of the scale. An in situ test was performed with marginal success.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This sheet summarizes information on geothermal heat pumps (GHPs), which extracts heat from the ground in the winter and transfers heat to the ground in the summer. More than 200,000 GHPs are operating in US; they can reduce energy consumption and related emissions by 23 to 44% compared to air-source heat pumps. Opportunities for use of GHPs, requirements, and cost are described. Important terms are defined.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An inner-city development with pile foundations as well as the proximity to the river Neckar with a groundwater flow offered ideal conditions for this new building in Mannheim in order to heat and cool geothermally. Already with the planning phase, detailed numerical flow computations were necessary in order to prove the functionality of the energy concept.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The issues of the geothermal resource at Brady's Hot Springs are dealt with: the prospective supply of feedstocks to the ethanol plant, the markets for the spent grain by-products of the plant, the storage, handling and transshipment requirements for the feedstocks and by-products from a rail siding facility at Fernley, the probable market for fuel ethanol in the region, and an assessment of the economic viability of the entire undertaking.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Clear effects of the Act on Power Generation from Renewable Energy Sources (EEWaermeG) on the market cannot be recognized both for the depth geothermal energy and ground source geothermal energy. Due to the concrete design of the law a position that is inferior to others is attained in relation to some other renewable energy sources.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Objective was to develop a glass utilizing the silica waste material from geothermal energy production, and to supply local artists with this glass to make artistic objects. A glass composed of 93% indigenous Hawaiian materials was developed; 24 artists made 110 objects from this glass. A market was found for art objects made from this material.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The heating system of the `Centre integre de mecanique industrielle de la Chaudiere`, in Saint-Georges, Quebec, is based on a solar wall and a geothermal heat pump with a glycol/water mixture circulating in 44 wells that are 100 m deep. With installation costs below $25 per sq.m, more than 85 per cent of the heating needs of the 9500 sq.m centre were supplied by geothermal power. The geothermal heat pump is composed of a well field and two 211-kW cooling units, each equipped with four coiled compressors. In winter, heat is pumped from the earth and in summer, a heat exchanger with control valves allows to heat to be dumped back into the earth. The monitoring and simulation of the system proved its efficiency, considering the climatic conditions in Quebec. The annual consumption of geothermal heating is 0.146 GJ per sq.m, which is very low compared to the consumption of electric heating (0.286 GJ per ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A cost study is described which compared the economics of four dry/wet cooling systems to use at the existing Raft River Geothermal Plant. The results apply only at this site and should not be generalized without due consideration of the complete geothermal cycle. These systems are: the Binary Cooling Tower, evaporative condenser, Combin-aire, and a metal fin-tube dry cooling tower with deluge augmentation. The systems were evaluated using cooled, treated geothermal fluid instead of ground or surface water in the cooling loops. All comparisons were performed on the basis of a common plant site - the Raft River 5 MWe geothermal plant in Idaho. The Binary Cooling Tower and the Combin-aire cooling system were designed assuming the use of the isobutane/water surface condenser currently installed at the Raft River Plant. The other two systems had the isobutane ducted to the evaporative condensers. Capital ...

Science.gov (United States)

Mineral deposition or alteration is commonly found at fracture-block interfaces is fissured, geothermal reservoirs. In response to pressure reduction in the fissures such mineralization, if less permeable than the matrix rock, will retard the flow of fluid from the blocks to the fissures and is termed fracture skin in this paper. The problem of fluid flow to a production well in a double-porosity reservoir with fracture skin was analyzed theoretically. One of the findings of the analysis was that fully transient block-to-fissure flow can be approximated by pseudo-steady state flow if fracture skin permeability is sufficiently low. Type curves generated by numerical inversion of Laplace transform solutions are used to cooroborate the results of a finite-difference model of steam transport to a well in a naturally fissured, geothermal reservoir with fracture skin.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Presented are the results from a laboratory test program conducted to identify and evaluate materials for converting hazardous geothermal residues to a non-hazardous and potentially usable form. Results indicate that the residues can be effectively incorporated, as a fine aggregate, into portland cement-based composites. Five geothermal residues obtained from sites in the Salton Sea area of California were evaluated. Three of these were classified as hazardous. After mixing with cement, the leach rates were all well below specified levels. Although structural-grade composites were produced, gradual reductions in properties with time up to 1 yr were noted. This indicates ongoing chemical reactions between the cement paste and the constituents of the residues. Further research is necessary before the composites could be considered for use in structural applications. 3 refs., 8 tabs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Knowledge of subsurface temperatures obtained from heat flow and equilibrium temperature measurements were used as a basis for evaluation of the usefulness of the non-equilibrium temperatures of oil and gas wells for geothermal exploration. We find that the data in the Geothermal Gradient Map of North America do not conform to the thermal regime of Nebraska; and, that if the BHT data were the only data used, we would have underestimated our resource by about 80%. Differences in geological sections and heat flow between Nebraska and the U.S. Gulf coast where the correction data for the USGS map were obtained are the reasons for the discrepency. Some significant inaccuracies in the BHT data may not be correctable.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The study discussed relates to the design and development of a process consisting of combining a reversible geothermal heat pump with thermal solar collectors for building heating and cooling and the production of domestic hot water. The proposed process, called GEOSOL, has been installed in a 180 m{sup 2} private residence in 2004. This installation is the subject of long-term experimental follow-up to analyse the energy-related behavior of the installation at all times of the year. In addition, different configurations of this combined system (geothermal heat pump and thermal solar collectors) have been defined and will be simulated numerically using TRNSYS software. A comparative analysis of these different alternative versions will be conducted to determine the best configuration(s) of the GEOSOL process in terms of energy, economical and environmental performances. (author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The residing fracture system and the prevailing in situ stresses have a significant impact on fluid flow and heat transfer in crystalline rocks. The long term response of fracture systems to changes in effective stresses, in particular the long term geo-mechanical effects of thermal stresses on reservoir characteristics is of particular interest to the geothermal industry.In this paper, a geothermal reservoir model is presented, in which a thermo-poroelastic finite element module is coupled to a fracture geomechanical module. This describes fracture closure as a function of effective stress and the changes in parameters, such as effective permeability, porosity and discrete fracture apertures. The novelty of this approach lies in its dynamic treatment of the characteristic properties of in...

Science.gov (United States)

Hot dry rock (HDR) contains insufficient permeability and fluid for natural hydrothermal development, but water pumped in a circulation loop through a HDR reservoir (hydraulically fractured between two drill holes) is being tested and evaluated. The formation of such in situ heat transfer systems, and subsequent testing of the man-made geothermal reservoirs in the Jemez volcanic field, New Mexico have already indicated the technical feasibility of the hot dry rock (HDR) geothermal concept. Documented production history and heat-extraction data obtained during the period from 1978 to 1980 have confirmed heat transfer, low water loss, and predictable thermal drawdown models for the HDR systems. During a nine month test of closed-loop heat extraction operations, 15 x 10/sup 6/ kWh of thermal energy were produced. The effective heat-transfer area and volume of the reservoir increased due to secondary fracturing caused by thermal contraction of the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Every day we are witnesses of constantly rapid increase of consumption of Electric energy in R. of Macedonia as so as in the other countries in all the world. This rapid increase of consumption of Electric energy independent of a lot of electrical units, which are applying in human life like: homes, administration and publication objects, as well as in industry. All of this conditions make us to thinking how is possible more rational consumption of electric energy in all areas in human life. One of the possible manners to reduce the consumption of electrical energy for heating and cooling is to use geothermal heat pumps. In this paper will be proposed geothermal heat pump, which is going to use the heat of earth by vertical and horizontal cupper pipe heat exchanger with data from-GHP (Geothermal Heat Pump) NORDIC, factory in Canada. Also, it will be examined all parameters and done comparison with already existing ones. It ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Heat Cycle Research Facility (HCRF) is an experimental binary-cycle facility used to investigate different concepts and/or components for generating electrical power from a geothermal resource. This report briefly desc

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In 1986, the National Research Council, through its Energy Engineering Board, formed the Committee on Geothermal Energy Technology. The committee's study addressed major issues in geothermal energy technology, made recommendations for research and development, and considered cooperative arrangements among government, industry, and universities to facilitate RandD under current severe budget constraints. The report addresses four types of geothermal energy: hydrothermal, geopressured, hot dry rock, and magma systems. Hydrothermal systems are the only type that are now economically competitive commercially. Further technology development by the Department of Energy could make the uneconomical hydrothermal resources commercially attractive to the industry. The economics are more uncertain for the longer-term technologies for extracting energy from geopressured, hot dry rock, and magma systems. For some sites, the cost ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Geothermal systems and fields are analysed giving particular evidence to the value of the geothermal source as an important natural source of energy. The paper analyses hydrothermal systems and describes the international experimental studies on the use of geothermal reservoirs in hot rocks with geopressured and magmatic systems. Experts are optimistic as far as the use of this innovative source of energy is possible in the medium-short term. [Italian] Si analizzano i sistemi e i campi geotermici, sottolineando il valore della fonte geotermica come risorsa naturale ragguardevole d'energia. Vengono descritti i sistemi idrotermali e gli esperimenti condotti a livello internazionale sull'utilizzo di serbatoi geotermici in rocce calde con sistemi geopressurizzati e magmatici. L'ottimismo degli esperti sull'utilizzo di questa innovativa sorgente d'energia in tempi medio-brevi.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The evaluation of radon concentration measurements in newly developing geothermal reservoirs with the objective of determining the ability of measured changes in noncondensible gas components, such as radon, to predict changes in the thermodynamic properties of the reservoir is described. This ability would be especially useful in liquid-dominated resources, where changes in steam fraction are sensitive to changes in reservoir temperature and fluid enthalpy. Radon measurements were made in samples separated by phase at the outlets of a prototype rotary separator turbine. The data were examined in relation to the thermodynamic properties of the geofluids supplied by the test well.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Researchers are developing polymer-based coating systems to reduce scaling and corrosion of air-cooled condensers that use a geothermal fluid spray for heat transfer augmentation. These coating systems act as barriers to corrosion to protect aluminum fins and steel tubing; they are formulated to resist the strong attachment of scale. Field tests have been done to determine the corrosion and scaling issues related to brine spraying and a promising organometallic polymer has been evaluated in salt spray tests.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

With the exception of Sand Springs in Williamstown, Massachusetts, there are no identifiable hydrothermal geothermal resources in the New England region. The radioactive plutons of the White Mountains of New Hampshire do not, apparently, contain sufficient stored heat to make them a feasible target for an induced hydrothermal system such as exists at Fenton Hill near Los Alamos, New Mexico. The only potential source of low grade heat is the large volume of ground water contained within the unconsolidated sediments related to the Pleistocene glaciation of the region. During the course of the survey an unusual and unexplained thermal anomaly was discovered in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, which is described.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Geothermal heat pump systems are a promising new energy technology that has shown rapid increase in usage over the past ten years in the United States. These systems offer substantial benefits to customers and utilities in energy (kWh) and demand (kW) savings. The purpose of this study was to determine what existing monitored data was available mainly from electric utilities on heat pump performance, energy savings and demand reduction for residential, school, and commercial building applications. Information was developed on the status of electric utility marketing programs, barriers to market penetration, incentive programs, and benefits.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A special study was conducted to investigate the influences of minimum approach temperature differences occurring in supercritical-heater/vaporizer and evaporative-condenser heat rejection systems on geothermal-electric binary power plant performance and cost of electricity. For the systems investigated optimum pinch points for minimizing cost of electricity were estimated to range from 5 to 7/sup 0/F for the heater vaporizer. The minimum approach of condensing temperature to wet-bulb temperature for evaporative condensers was estimated to be about 30/sup 0/F in order to achieve the lowest cost of electricity.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Petropavlovsk-Kamchatky (P-K) city in Kamchatka, Russia is operating hot-water district heating using heavy oil boilers and waste hot water of thermal power plants as heat sources. Feasibility study was made on district heating using natural geothermal hot water and/or geothermal heat pump systems as heat sources of hot water supply for reduction of greenhouse effect gas emission. Among 3 areas including geothermal hot water, use of hot water in K area was impossible because of lower temperature and less spring water. Use of hot water in P and UP areas was impossible as primary hot water because of temperature drop to 64 degrees C during hot water supply toward P-K city. The building heating operation test was carried out using the geothermal heat pump system installed in a newly drilled heat exchange well of 100m deep. As a result, sufficient heat recovery was achieved for heating. If all of 49 boiler ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The geothermal resources of the Wind River Basin were investigated. Oil-well bottom-hole temperatures, thermal logs of wells, and heat flow data have been interpreted within a framework of geologic and hydrologic constraints. Basic thermal data, which includes the background thermal gradient and the highest recorded temperature and corresponding depth for each basin, is tabulated. Background heat flow in the Wind River Basin is generally insufficient to produce high conductive gradients. Only where hydrologic systems re-distribute heat through mass movement of water will high temperatures occur at shallow depths. Aquifers which may have the confinement and structural characteristics necessary to create such geothermal systems are the Lance/Fort Union, Mesa Verde, Frontier, Muddy, Cloverly, Sundance, Nugget, Park City, Tensleep, Amsden, Madison, Bighorn, and Flathead Formations. Of these the Tensleep Sandstone and Madison Limestone are the most ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A geothermal heat pump-assisted heating system is introduced into Changchun City and a survey is conducted to determine if the system may be popularized in this extremely cold region located in the northeastern part of China. In concrete terms, the hot water that circulates through the office building of Changchun Ground Heat Development Co., Ltd., is switched to hot water prepared by a geothermal heat pump. The test continued from December 2000 to March 2001. It is then concluded that heating by geothermal heat pumps will be fully serviceable to Changchun City. Implemented are (1) the shift from the coal fired boiler system to a geothermal heat pump system comprising 16 subterranean heat exchangers for the heating of the office building which is approximately 1000 m{sup 2} large, (2) long-term monitoring of the operating conditions, (3) measurement of subterranean heat exchanger thermal conductivity ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Energy savings performance contracting (ESPC) is now receiving greater attention as a means of implementing large-scale energy conservation projects in housing. Opportunities for such projects exist for military housing, federally subsidized low-income housing, and planned communities (condominiums, townhomes, senior centers), to name a few. Accurate prior (to construction) estimates of the energy savings in these projects reduce risk, decrease financing costs, and help avoid post-construction disputes over performance contract baseline adjustments. This paper demonstrates an improved method of estimating energy savings before construction takes place. Using an engineering model calibrated to pre-construction energy-use data collected in the field, this method is able to predict actual energy savings to a high degree of accuracy. This is verified with post-construction energy-use data from a geothermal heat pump ESPC at Fort Polk, Louisiana. This method also allows ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The 3-D model program was developed to apply a mise-a-la-masse method to linear current sources with optional shapes. Mise-a-la-masse method is a bipolar mapping survey method using current sources installed in wells, and recently has been widely used for direct exploration of geothermal reservoirs. This method is also used for monitoring underground fluid as electrode arrangement of fluid flow tomography for surveying underground fluid (geothermal fluid, underground water, petroleum). In the geothermal reservoir exploration, the casing pipes of wells are used as linear current sources, and measured data are processed as those based on vertical current source. In the largely inclined well, the inclination of current sources should be considered. The 3-D modeling program was developed by difference calculus using the theoretical potential equation and apparent resistivity based on linear current sources with optional 3-D ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Versatility of the TRNSYS software program, the ease with which new components can be incorporated into the software, and its application to simulate heat pump systems was discussed. A case history was described in which the package, augmented by the addition of several recent large-scale heat pump projects, was used in calibrating a residential geothermal heat pump system at a military housing project in Fort Polk, LA. The project involved retrofitting over 4000 air source heat pumps with geothermal heat pumps in an energy savings performance contract. The calibration of the component models led to a system model which accurately predicts the performance of the geothermal heat pump. The lessons learned from the calibration exercise were used to help to predict the energy savings from one of the electric feeders at the base which serves some 200 of the 4000+ apartments. Energy savings estimates within one per cent of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

North Dakota Concrete Products Company uses a steam curing process that accelerates the concrete curing so that 28-day strength is obtained within 24 hours. The cost of energy required to accomplish this is significant, amounting to approximately $80,000 in 1980. The present boilers are oil fired. Recently, fuel oil prices have increased substantially. Further, supply shortages in the past have threatened plant production. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the economic feasibility of using deep formation warm water as an alternative energy source. A water-to-water heat pump system to replace the existing boiler system was investigated. TPI, Inc. economic and engineering findings for this particular potential geothermal application are disclosed. The operating cost savings of the geothermal system over the operating costs of the existing oilfired system would be insufficient to provide an acceptable rate of return on the investment at ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We are continuing to study the suitability of modified thermal-battery technology as a potential power source for geothermal borehole applications. Previous work focused on the LiSi/FeS{sub 2} couple over a temperature range of 350 C to 400 C with the LiBr-KBr-LiF eutectic, which melts at 324.5 C. In this work, the discharge processes that take place in LiSi/CsBr-LiBr-KBr eutectic/FeS{sub 2} thermal cells were studied at temperatures between 250 C and 400 C using pelletized cells with immobilized electrolyte. The CsBr-LiBr-KBr eutectic was selected because of its lower melting point (228.5 C). Incorporation of a quasi-reference electrode allowed the determination of the relative contribution of each electrode to the overall cell polarization. The results of single-cell tests and limited battery tests are presented, along with preliminary data for battery stacks tested in a simulated geothermal borehole environment.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This study reviews the wireline log responses of some geothermal fields in the Imperial Valley, California. The fields under study include the Heber, the East Mesa, the Brawley, and the Westmoreland. The well logs used in the study did not include all the wireline surveys obtained by the operators. The selected well logs obtained under special arrangements with the operators were chosen to maintain the anonymity of specific well locations but are only representative of each area. Analysis of the well logs indicates that on an individual field basis, the well logs are excellent for correlation purposes. The presence of extremely saline fluids in some fields precludes the monitoring of Q/sub v/ (cation exchange capacity per unit volume) profile for detection of hydrothermally altered zones. The producing sections in all the fields are characterized by low porosity and high resistivity.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In order to match the output capacity of a geothermal heat pump system (GHPS) with the actual load requirement, research has been conducted in searching for suitable adjusting methods for the GHPS and on the subsequent effects on the working parameters of the GHPS. Firstly, several methods are compared, and it is found that the method of adjusting the compressor's rotation speed using a transducer is better than the others. Secondly, this method is experimented on a small scale GHPS at frequencies ranging from 30 to 55 Hz. The analysis of the experimental data reveals the relationships between the compressor frequency and other important parameters, such as coefficient of performance, heat capacity, cool capacity and compressor power input. The conclusions in the paper can serve as some guidance to the load adjustment of GHPS. (Author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper studies the effects of axial heat conduction in boreholes used in geothermal heat pump systems. The axial effects are examined by comparing the results obtained using the finite and infinite line source methods. Using various practical design problems, it is shown that axial effects are relatively important. Unsurprisingly, short boreholes and unbalanced yearly ground loads lead to stronger axial effects. In one example considered, it is shown that the borehole length is 15% shorter when axial conduction effects are considered. In another example dealing with underground water freezing, the amount of energy that has to be removed to freeze the ground is three times higher when axial effects are considered. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This Final Environmental Impact Statement and Environmental Impact Report (Final EIS/EIR) has been prepared to meet the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Proposed Action includes the construction, operation, and decommissioning of a 48 megawatt (gross) geothermal power plant with ancillary facilities (10-12 production well pads and 3-5 injection well pads, production and injection pipelines), access roads, and a 230-kilovolt (kV) transmission line in the Modoc National Forest in Siskiyou County, California. Alternative locations for the power plant site within a reasonable distance of the middle of the wellfield were determined to be technically feasible. Three power plant site alternatives are evaluated in the Final EIS/EIR.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The understanding of transport processes that occur in naturally fractured geothermal systems is far from being complete. Often, evaluation and numerical simulations of fractured geothermal reservoirs, are carried out by assuming equivalent porous media and homogeneous petrophysical properties within big matrix blocks. The purpose of this paper, is to present a comparison between results obtained from numerical studies of a naturally fractured reservoir treated as a simple porous medium and the simulation of some real aspects of the fractured reservoir. A general conclusion outlines the great practical importance of considering even approximately, the true nature of such systems. Our results show that the homogeneous simplified evaluation of the energy resource in a fractured system, could result in unrealistic estimates of the reservoir capacity to generate electricity.

Science.gov (United States)

We present a numerical model of vapor-dominated reservoirs which is based on the well-known conceptual model of White, Muffler, and Truesdell. Computer simulations show that upon heat recharge at the base, a single phase liquid-dominated geothermal reservoir in fractured rock with low matrix permeability will evolve into a two-phase reservoir with B.P.D. (boiling point-for-depth) pressure and temperature profiles. A rather limited discharge event through cracks in the caprock, involving loss of only a few percent of fluids in place, is sufficient to set the system off to evolve a vapor-dominated state. The attributes of this state are discussed, and some features requiring further clarification are identified. 26 refs., 5 figs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hydrothermal systems typically consist of hot permeable rock which contains either liquid or liquid and saturated steam within the voids. These systems vent fluids at the surface through hot springs, fumaroles, mud pools, steaming ground and geysers. They are simultaneously recharged as meteoric water percolates through the surrounding rock or through the active injection of water at various geothermal reservoirs. In a number of geothermal reservoirs from which significant amounts of hot fluid have been extracted and passed through turbines, superheated regions of vapor have developed. As liquid migrates through a superheated region of a hydrothermal system, some of the liquid vaporizes at a migrating liquid-vapor interface. Using simple physical arguments, and analogue laboratory experiments we show that, under the influence of gravity, the liquid-vapor interface may become unstable and break up into fingers.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An availability assessment of the principal systems of the Heber Geothermal Power Plant has been carried out based on the final issue of the process descriptions, process flow diagrams, and the approved for design P and IDs prepared by Fluor Power Services, Inc. (FPS). The principal systems are those which contribute most to plant unavailability. The plant equivalent availability, considering forced and deferred corrective maintenance outages, was computed using a 91 state Markov model to represent the 29 principal system failure configurations and their significant combinations. The failure configurations and associated failure and repair rates were defined from system/subsystem availability assessments that were conducted using the availability assessments based on the EPRI GO methodology and availability block diagram models. The availability and unavailability ranking of the systems and major equipment is presented.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Utilisation of geothermal energy may soon become an important factor in power supply in Germany. The contribution discusses the utilisation of hydrothermal low-pressure systems, the geological boundary conditions, the technical design of the thermal water cycle, and the current status of the hot dry rock technology. [German] Die Nutzung der Energie ausd Erdwaerme kann in naher Zukunft eine wichtige Rolle in der Energieversorgung Deutschlands spielen. Der vorliegende Artikel gibt einen Ueberblick ueber die Nutzung hydrothermaler Niederdrucksysteme, die geologischen Rahmenbedingungen, den technischen Aufbau des Thermalwasserkreislaufes sowie zum aktuellen Stand des Hot Dry Rock Verfahrens.

Science.gov (United States)

Studies relative to some formation evaluation aspects of geothermal reservoirs are reported. The particular reservoirs considered were the liquid dominated type with a lithology of the sedimentary nature. Specific problems of interest included the resistivity behavior of brines and rocks at elevated temperatures and studies on the feasibility of using the well log resistivity data to obtain estimates of reservoir permeability. Several papers summarizing the results of these studies were presented at various technical meetings for rapid dissemination of the results to potential users. These papers together with a summary of data most recently generated are included. A brief review of the research findings precedes the technical papers. Separate abstracts were prepared for four papers. Five papers were abstracted previously for EDB.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An exergoeconomic model of a vertical ground-source heat pump residential heating system presented in this study uses exergy and cost energy mass (EXCEM) methods. The data obtained from a ground-source heat pump (GSHP) residential heating system installed at the Solar Energy Institute, Ege University, Turkey, are utilized for calculations at different reference temperature values in the range 0-25{sup o}C. The performance of the geothermal heat pump residential heating system is evaluated to indicate how exergoeconomic parameter values change with system. We also undertake a parametric study to investigate how varying reference temperatures will affect the exergoeconomic analysis of the GSHP system. A correlation between the ratio of thermodynamic loss rate to capital cost and reference state temperature is developed. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This publication of the Areva Group, a world nuclear industry leader, provides information on the energy in many domains. This issue deals with the nuclear fuel cycle, the biofuels, the everyday geothermal power, the Unites States energy supply and types, the Bertrand Picard solar aircraft, the kyoto protocol and the wind power leaders. A special chapter is devoted to the renaissance of solar homes. (A.L.B.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

At a military base in the Southeastern US, an energy services company (ESCO) has proposed to retrofit more than 1,000 family residences with geothermal heat pumps as part of an energy savings performance contract (ESPC). Each residence is to have one heat pump with its own ground heat exchanger consisting of two or more vertical bores. A design firm hired by the ESCO sized the heat pumps to meet peak cooling loads, and sized the borefields to limit the maximum entering water temperature (EWT) to the heat pumps to 95 F (35 C). Because there is some disagreement in the geothermal heat pump industry over the peak temperature to be used for design (some designers and design manuals recommend temperatures as low as 85 F[29 C], while equipment manufacturers and others specify temperatures of 100 F[38 C] or higher) the authors were requested to examine the designs in detail to determine whether the 95 F (35 C) limit was adequate to ensure occupant ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This short article describes the strategies taken into consideration by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy for the promotion of renewable forms of energy in Switzerland. Two basic models are considered and the parts to be played by the Swiss Confederation, the Swiss Cantons, Energy Agencies and professional organisations are discussed. The importance of the activities of partner organisations and actor-networks in various areas such as solar, small hydro, geothermal and wind energy are discussed, as are models for financing the necessary promotion and marketing efforts

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

An outline of Manitoba Hydro's Earth Power program was presented. Details of the heat pump market in Manitoba were provided, including details of residential and commercial sales. Total residential heat pump sales amounted to 577 units in 2004, equivalent to over $11.2 million in sales. Commercial installations amounted to approximately $12.7 million. An outline of industry players was presented. The goals of Manitoba Hydro were outlined in relation to geothermal energy and the Power Smart program. Their objectives included increasing awareness of geothermal energy, making heat pumps more accessible, and improving industry infrastructure. Other objectives included educating the public about life-cycle cost implications, residential loans and commercial incentives. To date, the residential power loan has provided financing to over 300 Manitoba home owners for installations, with electrical savings of over 1.34 Gwh and natural gas savings of ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This 2001 edition of the guide to UK renewable companies and equipment and service providers presents summaries of the different industry sectors covering wind power, photovoltaics, solar water heating, geothermal heat pump, hydroelectric power, marine current and wave technology, bioenergy, power generation from landfill gas, energy from waste, and cogeneration. A UK company classification listing and index is provided along with listing of UK organisations and companies and an index of advertisers.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Heat Cycle Research Program, which is being conducted for the Department of Energy, has as its objective the development of the technology for effecting the improved utilization of moderate temperature geothermal resources. To meet this objective, the program has as one of its goals to improve the performance of geothermal binary cycles to levels approaching the practicable thermodynamic maximum. In pursuit of this goal, tests are being conducted at the Heat Cycle Research Facility located at the DOE Geothermal Test Facility, East Mesa, California. The current testing involves the investigation of binary power cycle performance utilizing mixtures of non-adjacent hydrocarbons as the working fluids, with supercritical vaporization and in-tube condensation of the working fluid. In addition to the present test program, preparations are being made to investigate the binary cycle performance improvements which can be achieved ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Summaries of the highlights of programs in the Earth Sciences Division are presented under four headings; Geosciences, Geothermal Energy Development, Nuclear Waste Isolation, and Marine Sciences. Utilizing both basic and applied research in a wide spectrum of topics, these programs are providing results that will be of value in helping to secure the nation's energy future. Separate abstracts have been prepared for each project for inclusion in the Energy Data Base. (DMC)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The design characteristic of the autocontrol technique of the combined centrifuge is introduced. Digital technique, vary structure control and interface technique, graphical display techniques, digital communication technique as well as electronic technique are applied in the course of research. Automation in the operation of large scale combined centrifuges and the course of combined test has been realized and it can coordinate with other systems of status monitoring, data collecting and centrifugal force-aerodynamic force matched load automatically

CERN Document Server

In this report, I surveyed the cognitive radio technique in wireless networks. Researched several kinds of cognitive techniques about their advantages and disadvantages.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mixed-convection phenomena can occur within liquid-dominated geothermal reservoirs due to interactions of injected flows, or ground-water flows, with the buoyancy-induced fluid motion. This problem was studied experimentally and numerically for the case of opposing flows about a vertical heat source in a liquid-saturated porous medium. The ratio of the Rayleigh number (Ra) to the Peclet number (Pe) was identified as the nondimensional parameter which characterizes the relative influence of buoyancy-driven to pressure-gradient-driven fluid motion. The transition from mixed to forced convection was numerically determined to be (Ra/Pe) approx. = -0.5, where the minus sign denotes superimposed downflow. Agreement between measured and predicted thermal-field results showed that the finite-element code of Gartling and Hickox (1982 a,b) can be used to model low-temperature (single-phase) geothermal reservoirs throughout the natural, mixed, and forced ...

Science.gov (United States)

Given sufficient time, the extraction of heat from geothermal reservoirs formed by the hydraulic fracturing of competent rock will eventually result in the formation of thermal stress cracks in the reservoir. These cracks penetrate the rock in a manner such that the penetration-to-spacing ratio is approximately one. The penetration depends upon the extent of cooling and the square root of time. Initially then, the cracks are closely spaced and penetrate but little, so that a crazing pattern is apparent; but with increasing time some of these cracks, now more widely spaced, grow deeper. Eventually these larger cracks attain a critical aperture such that significant rates of water flow can be established within them and thus the newly created heat transfer area becomes useful for heat extraction. At the same time that cracks are forming within the main reservoir, thermal cracking also occurs in the wellbores that communicate with the reservoir. These cracks ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Excessive erosion of the labyrinth seal of a 100 MW geothermal turbine has been investigated. This study used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and aims to identify one cause of erosion and a possible solution for substantially reducing it. The predictions were based upon a numerical calculation using a CFD model of the labyrinth seal with a water/steam flow containing hard solid particles and solved with a commercial CFD code: Fluent V5.0. The results confirmed the existence of flow conditions that play a major role in the rotor labyrinth seal erosion. Afterwards, the flow path was simulated with changes of rotor labyrinth seal geometry, which are indeed feasible of being implemented. The results confirmed that it is possible to reduce the erosion process by approximately 80% by incorporating a steam flow deflector in the fourth stage diaphragm, which changes the steam flow direction in the inlet zone to the rotor labyrinth seal channel, resulting in a reduction ...

Science.gov (United States)

The governing equations for heat and mass transfer were derived for hydraulically fractured geothermal reservoirs. When converted to nondimensional form it was shown that the equations can be considerably simplified. The resulting equations can be strongly influenced by the effects of buoyancy; the magnitude of the effect is measured by the ratio of the Grashof and Reynolds numbers, and the ratio of the actual permeability of the fracture and the square of the fracture gap width. Significant quantities of energy can be extracted from hydraulic fractures--even without thermal stress fracturing. The amount is limited by the size of the fracture and the low thermal conductivity of rock. The viscous pressure drop in open fractures is insignificant, and depending upon losses in piping and surface equipment, the entire system could be ''self-pumped'' due to buoyancy. Thermal contraction of the rock tends to increase the fracture gap ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The present paper explains the curve-fitting method developed as a method to estimate the geothermal equilibrium forming temperature. In the present method, that temperature is estimated by obtaining, by non-linear lest square, the model parameter to minimize the sum of remainders squared between the temperature actually measured after a lapse of certain time from the stoppage of mud water circulation and that calculated on the basis of Middleton model, mathematical model of temperature equilibrium well. In the Horner's plotting method currently in general use, temperature recovery data during a long period of about 120h are required for estimating the geothermal equilibrium forming temperature. However in the curve-fitting method, it is confirmed from the actual well data that the well recovery temperature is estimable from three logging data during 24h after the stoppage of mud water circulation within the largest error of 5%, and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report for the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) describes the borehole that has been driven into the underlying crystalline rock of the Rhine valley near Basle. This work has been carried out within the framework of the 'Deep Heat Mining' project. The 2,755 metre deep borehole provides geological information essential for the realisation of a proposed geothermal power station using the 'Hot Dry Rock' process. The boring of the test borehole is described. The results obtained from samples taken from the test borehole and the measurements made in it are presented, including details on geological formations, temperature, gas measurements and rock strain values. The author is of the opinion that the chances of finding temperatures of at least 200 {sup o}C in a depth of 5 km - as foreseen in the 'Deep Heat Mining' project - can be considered as being quite high.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The high-temperature scanning borehole inspection system is currently being developed jointly by the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and Westfalische Berggewerkschaftskasse (WBK) of West Germany. The downhole instrument is a digital televiewer that utilized a microprocessor to digitize, process and transmit the acoustic information to the surface acquisition and control system. The primary operation of the downhole acoustic assembly uses a piezoelectric crystal acting as a receiver-transmitter which is mounted on the rotating head. The crystal emits a burst of acoustic energy that propagates through the borehole fluid with a portion of the energy reflected by the borehole wall back to the crystal. The time of travel and the amplitude of the reflected signal are conditioned by the microprocessor and transmitted along with other pertinent data to the surface data processing center. This instrument has been designed specifically for use in geothermal borehole ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the last 30 years the production of electricity in the USSR has increased 14-fold, probably attaining 1540 billion kWH in 1985. Nuclear generation will provide the bulk of future increases of consumption, using both water-cooled and uranium/graphite reactors; stations of up to 1.5 million kW are in service. The USSR is also in the fore-front of attempts to exploit thermonuclear power. The USSR is also conducting experiments with renewable sources of energy such as solar, geothermal, wind and wave power and with magnetohydrodynamic generation. (D.A.J.).

CERN Document Server

Heat exchange during laminar flow is studied at the fracture scale on the basis of the Stokes equation. We used a synthetic aperture model (a self-affine model) that has been shown to be a realistic geometrical description of the fracture morphology. We developed a numerical modelling using a finite difference scheme of the hydrodynamic flow and its coupling with an advection/conduction description of the fluid heat. As a first step, temperature within the surrounding rock is supposed to be constant. Influence of the fracture roughness on the heat flux through the wall, is estimated and a thermalization length is shown to emerge. Implications for the Soultz-sous-For\\^{e}ts geothermal project are discussed.

Science.gov (United States)

The Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs issued the report on a bill to establish a national program for research, development, and demonstration in fuels and energy and for the coordination and financial supplementation of Federal energy research and development; to establish development corporations to demonstrate technologies for shale oil development, advanced power cycle development, geothermal steam development, and coal liquefaction and gasification development; to authorize and direct the Secretary of the Interior to make mineral resources of the public lands available for the development conporations. Comments from governmental agencies on the bill are published. (MCW)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The automatic interpretation of apparent resistivity curves from horizontally layered earth models is carried out by the curve-fitting method in three steps: (1) the observed VES data are interpolated at equidistant points of electrode separations on the logarithmic scale by using the cubic spline function, (2) the layer parameters which are resistivities and depths are predicted from the sampled apparent resistivity values by SALS system program and (3) the theoretical VES curves from the models are calculated by Ghosh's linear filter method using the Zhody's computer program. Two soundings taken over Takenoyu geothermal area were chosen to test the procedures of the automatic interpretation.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Since 1977, precise leveling surveys have been carried out to determine whether there have been vertical terrain displacements and the subsidence speed rate in the Cerro Prieto Geothermal field area. The elevation contours for each leveling show since 1962 that there was a basin that involves the geothermal field. The differences in the last three levelings show a generalized subsidence between Cerro Prieto (BN 10049) and Imperial faults (BN CD-14). [Spanish] A partir de 1977 se realizan trabajos de nivelacion de precision, con el fin de conocer si existen desplazamientos verticales del terreno y cual es la velocidad de subsidencia que existe en el area del Campo Geotermico de Cerro Prieto. Las configuraciones de cotas para cada uno de los anos nivelados, muestran que desde 1962 existe una cuenca que incluye al campo geotermico; la diferencia de cotas obtenidas en las tres ultimas nivelaciones, indican una subsidencia generalizada entre la ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In 1994, the United States Department of Energy, the United States electric utilities and the geothermal heat pump (GeoExchange) industry formed a non-profit collaborative effort called the Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium (GHPC). The objectives were the reduction and/or elimination of 1.5 million metric tons of carbon equivalent per year and making geothermal heat pumps a significant part of the Heating Ventilation Air Cooling (HVAC) industry. Federal funding of 35 million dollars over six years was matched by 65 million dollars of private sector funds to attain these objectives and create a self-sustainable GeoExchange market. The major accomplishments of this endeavour, as well as the lessons learned were presented in this paper. The infrastructure was strengthened, first cost was reduced, and awareness of the technology was increased over the past six years as a result of the efforts deployed by the GHPC. More than ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Lincoln Public School District, in Lincoln, Nebraska, recently installed vertical-bore geothermal heat pump systems in four, new, elementary schools. Because the district has consistent maintenance records and procedures, it was possible to study repair, service and corrective maintenance requests for 20 schools in the district. Each school studied provides cooling to over 70% of its total floor area and uses one of the following heating and cooling systems: vertical-bore geothermal heat pumps (GHPs), air-cooled chiller with gas-fired hot water boiler (ACUGHWB), water-cooled chiller with gas-fired hot water boiler (WCCYGHWB), or water-cooled chiller with gas-fired steam boiler (WCUGSB). Preventative maintenance and capital renewal activities were not included in the available database. GHP schools reported average total costs at 2.13 cents/ft{sup 2}-yr, followed by ACC/GHWB schools at 2.88 cents/ft{sup 2}-yr, WCC/GSB schools at 3.73 ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

Science.gov (United States)

No Abstract Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Motivation is given for a technique to more thoroughly test semiconductor equipment control systems. A description is given of a simulator-based control system testing technique. Potential benefits that could be realized by using this technique in the semiconductor industry as well as benefits documented by using this technique in other industries are described. Specific requirements for using the technique in the semiconductor industry are outlined. A summary of a survey of nine commercial simulation systems is given. Finally, the outcome of the survey is compared with the requirements for using the technique.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The performance of binary geothermal power plants can be improved through the proper choice of a working fluid, and optimization of component designs and operating conditions. This paper reviews the investigations at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) which are examining binary cycle performance improvements: for moderate temperature (350 to 400 F) resources with emphasis on how the improvements may be integrated into design of binary cycles. These investigations are examining performance improvements resulting from the supercritical vaporization of mixed hydrocarbon working fluids and achieving countercurrent integral condensation with these fluids, as well as the modification of the turbine inlet state points to achieve supersaturated turbine vapor expansions. For resources where the brine outlet temperature is restricted, the use of turbine exhaust recuperators is examined. The baseline plant used to determine improvements in plant performance ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Ground thermal energy storage is a means of storing thermal energy underground during the summer and utilizing it during the winter. The main use of such a technology is in the heating, ventilating and air conditioning sector where the ground provides a stable temperature reservoir for a heat pump system. Heat pumps are mechanical systems that provide heating to a space in the winter, and cooling in the summer. They are increasingly popular because the same system provides both heating modes, depending on the direction of the cycle upon which they operate. The stable temperature reservoir allows the heat pump system to run at a higher efficiency. Thermal energy is transmitted to and from the ground by circulation of water through standing column geothermal wells. In commercial applications...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Neutralizing an acidic fluid consists of adding a sodium hydroxide solution to neutralize the H group of acids, therefore increasing the pH. The injection of sodium hydroxide has to be continuous and at a proper depth inside the well to protect against the corrosion of casing and surface equipment. Neutralization is a common practice used in geothermal fields, such as at The Geysers in the US and Miravalles in Costa Rica-places where aggressive fluids cause problems for extracting and using geothermal fluids commercially. A zone surrounding wells H-4, H-16 and H-29 in the northern section of the Los Humeros, Pue., geothermal field, known as the Colapso Central, has shown evidence of aggressively acidic fluids. Several wells drilled in the area had to be repaired, thus plugging and isolating the deepest production zones. Well H-43 was drilled two years ago in the northern zone of the field, and even though it is not located ...

Wastenet

...Polymer Fuel Cells Challenge Publications News Events Login Register Search Content type All Web pages Case studies Publications News Video Home ...Buildings Carbon capture & storage Combined heat & power Electricity transmission & distribution Energy storage Fuel cells Geothermal Hydroelectric Hydrogen Industry Lighting Marine Metering Nuclear Solar Transport Wind ...Home Emerging technologies Current focus areas Polymer Fuel Cell Challenge Polymer Fuel Cells Challenge The objective of the Polymer Fuel Cells Challenge is to develop,...prove and commercialise novel polymer fuel cell technologies that have the potential to deliver a step-change in overall system cost. What are ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Inverse and direct methods have been used to analyze a large number of borehole temperature logs in order to infer past climatic changes. Results indicate a warming of 1-2[degree]C in eastern and central Canada during the past 150 years. A period of cooling between 500 and 200 years before present, corresponding to the time of the Little Ice Age, has also been identified in the same areas. A regional ground temperature history is estimated for eastern and central Canada from the simultaneous inversion of several temperature logs. The inferred temperature changes appear correlated with the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide as reported from a Greenland ice core, and agree with existing meteorological and dendrochronological records for the area.

CERN Document Server

We present first worldline numerical results for the nontrivial interplay between geometry and temperature dependencies of the Casimir effect. We show that the temperature dependence of the Casimir force can be significantly larger for open geometries (e.g., perpendicular plates) than for closed geometries (e.g., parallel plates). For surface separations in the experimentally relevant range, the thermal correction for the perpendicular-plates configuration exhibits a stronger parameter dependence and exceeds that for parallel plates by more than an order of magnitude at room temperature. This effect can be attributed to the fact that the fluctuation spectrum for closed geometries is gapped, inhibiting the thermal excitation of modes at low temperatures. By contrast, open geometries support a thermal excitation of the low-lying modes in the gapless spectrum already at low temperatures.

Science.gov (United States)

A discussion of historical techniques and future programs dealing with camouflage in urban warfare. The report emphasizes current capabilities in camouflage and deception and concludes that camouflage and deception techniques when used properly can provid...

Science.gov (United States)

... Accession Number : ADD344580. Title : SQUID Eddy Current Technique Applying Conformable Eddy Current Probes,. Corporate Author : ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

We present a technique for identifying the amino acids responsible for a loss of immunoreactivity in response to treating an antigen with a chemical modifier. This is of particular interest...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Two hot dry rock geothermal energy reservoirs were created by hydraulic fracturing of Precambrian granitic rock on the west flank of the Valles Caldera, a dormant volcanic complex, in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico. Heat was extracted in a closed-loop mode of operation, injecting water into one well and extracting the heated water from a separate production well. The first reservoir was produced by fracturing the injection well at a depth of 2.75 km (9020 ft) where the indigenous rock temperature was 185/sup 0/C. The relatively rapid thermal drawdown of the water produced from the first reservoir, 100/sup 0/C in 74 days, indicated that its effective fracture radius was about 60 m (200 ft). Average thermal power extracted was 4 MW. A second, larger reservoir was created by refracturing the injection well 180 m (600 ft) deeper. Downhole measurements of the water temperature at the reservoir outlet as well as temperatures inferred from chemical ...

Science.gov (United States)

No Abstract Available

KoreaScience (Korea)

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KoreaScience (Korea)

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KoreaScience (Korea)

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International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

(1985). USSR Nedavnij, OI Tomskij Politekhnicheskij Inst. (USSR).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Focuses on the application of remote sensing techniques to the study of coal waste mounds. The situation at the coal waste mounds in Fukuoka, Japan is cited. Guidelines on film parameters, photographic keys and tasks required to inventory, monitor and manage coal waste mounds in Japan are addressed. Application of photogrammetry, remote sensing, aerial photography and satellite imagery techniques in monitoring spoil banks is reviewed. Applicability of the techniques is discussed. 24 refs.

KoreaScience (Korea)

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KoreaScience (Korea)

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KoreaScience (Korea)

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International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In this paper, we show how to improve and extend the integration by fractional expansion technique (IBFE) by applying it to certain families of scalar massive Feynman diagrams. The strategy is based on combining this method together with the integration by parts technique. In particular, we want to calculate certain Feynman diagrams which have a triangle loop as a subgraph. The main idea is to use the integration by parts technique in this subgraph in order to simplify the topology of the original diagram in which it is immersed, using then, in a second step, the IBFE technique. The result we have obtained, after the application of both techniques, represents a simplification in the complexity of the solution, compared with having used only the IBFE technique.

CERN Document Server

The increasing number of aspect mining techniques proposed in literature calls for a methodological way of comparing and combining them in order to assess, and improve on, their quality. This paper addresses this situation by proposing a common framework based on crosscutting concern sorts which allows for consistent assessment, comparison and combination of aspect mining techniques. The framework identifies a set of requirements that ensure homogeneity in formulating the mining goals, presenting the results and assessing their quality. We demonstrate feasibility of the approach by retrofitting an existing aspect mining technique to the framework, and by using it to design and implement two new mining techniques. We apply the three techniques to a known aspect mining benchmark and show how they can be consistently assessed and combined to increase the quality of the results. The ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This final report for the Swiss Federal Office of Energy looks at the possibilities for improved waste water utilization in the Lavey-les-Bains thermal spa, Switzerland. According to the regulations in force, the temperature of the waste water rejected into the Rhone river shall not exceed 30 {sup o}C, what is currently not the case. Also the operational cost shall be reduced and the waste water quality improved. The installations are presented. From the two geothermal wells, mineral water comes out at an average flow rate of 940 l/min and a temperature of 63 {sup o}C. Actual waste water data are reported. The measured thermal water consumption data, including seasonal variations, are analysed by computerized simulation and measures to reduce the consumed volume by the optimization of internal procedures are evaluated. Measures to reduce the quantity of the rejected free chlorine are discussed. Several possible adaptations of the existing space heating, domestic ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Work of the Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium (GHPC), a joint program of the US Department of Energy, the US Environmental Protection Agency, the US electric utilities and industry was described. The consortium was established to improve energy efficiency and reduce CO{sub 2} emissions by moving ground source and groundwater source heat pumps from niche products to ten percent of the new and retrofit HVAC market in less than a decade. The GHPC program focuses on : (1) reducing first costs through technology innovation and innovative financing, (2) strengthening the infrastructure though education, training and work codes and regulations, and (3) building confidence in the technology through demonstrations of cost-effectiveness, low maintenance efforts and through marketing programs. Results of the first two years of operations were described. Results indicate that the objectives are being achieved, the number of installations is increasing and a solid foundation is ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Identifying stable isotope variation and mineralogical changes in fractured rock may help establish the history of climatic and geomorphological processes that might affect the isolation properties of a waste repository site. This study examines the use of the stable isotope ratios of oxygen ({sup 18}O/{sup 16}O) and carbon ({sup 13}C/{sup 12}C) in authigenic minerals as hydrogeochemical tools tracing low-temperature rock-water interaction in variably-saturated fractured stuff. Isotopic compositions of fracture-filling and rock matrix minerals in the Apache Leap tuff, near Superior, Arizona were concordant with geothermal temperatures and in equilibrium with water isotopically similar to present-day meteoric water and groundwater. Oxygen and carbon isotope ratios of fracture-filling, in unsaturated fractured tuff, displayed an isotopic gradient believed to result from near-surface isotopic enrichment due to evaporation rather than the effects of rock-water ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The testing performed during the last phase of the geothermal direct contact heat exchanger program utilizing the 500 kW pilot plant provided more insight into the capabilities and limits of the direct contact approach and showed that more work needs to be done to understand the inner workings of a large direct contact heat exchanger if they are to be modeled analytically. Testing of the column demonstrated that the performance was excellent and that the sizing criteria is conservative. The system operated smoothly and was readily controlled over a wide range of operating conditions. Performance evaluation showed pinch differentials of 4/sup 0/F or less and better than predicted heat transfer capability. Testing during this final phase was directed towards establishing the limits of the column to transfer heat. The working column height was shortened progressively to approximately 16 feet from a design length of 28 feet. The short column performed as well as a full ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ground-source heat pump systems (GSHPSs), also referred to as geothermal heat pump systems (GHPSs), have been widely used in residential and commercial buildings for years due to their outstanding energy utilization efficiencies. In this study, an energy and exergy modeling of solar assisted ground-source heat pump systems for residential applications is presented for system analysis and performance evaluation. In this regard, the performance of a solar assisted ground-source heat pump heating system, installed in Solar Energy Institute of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey, is evaluated based on the actual operational data to show how energy and exergy efficiencies values change with the system. The average heating coefficient of performances (as energy efficiencies) of the solar assisted ground-source heat pump (GSHP) unit and the overall system are obtained to be 2.64 and 2.38, respectively. The average exergy efficiency of the system is determined to be 67.7%. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The merits of single stage absorption heat pumps coupled to simple distillation for effluent treatment are discussed. An experimental integrated absorption heat pump effluent purification system (IAHPEPS) was built and operated with water-lithium bromide as a working mixture. This unit has been used to raise the temperature and hence, the vapour pressure of the impure water contained in one vessel, to the point where pure water vapour will distil from impure effluent solution (tap water or brine) and condense in a second vessel used to collect pure water. Pure effluent production rates of between 0.5 and 4.3 kg h{sup -1} were obtained. The actual coefficient of performance (COP{sub A}) and the heat pump effectiveness varied from 1.1 to 1.4 and 0.58 to 0.72, respectively. The results from the small scale systems indicate the likely results from industrial scale units which could be operated with low quality heat such as waste heat, solar or geothermal resources. ...

Science.gov (United States)

This investigation will explore the effect that current timber extraction techniques have on plethadontid salamander populations in ... group selection, and two-age harvest. Broad scale timber extraction can d...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

We have used the two-electrode voltage clamp technique and the patch clamp technique to investigate the regulation of ROMK1 channels by protein-tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) and protein-tyrosine...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper is concerned with the economic operation of power systems comprising pumped storage and thermal plants. In power systems, pumped storage plants may receive the energy required for pumping water either from the system in which they are integrated or from a neighbouring system. Therefore, two mathematical formulations of the problem are presented depending on the source of energy during pumping. In both cases, the problem is reduced to a non linear optimization problem. Two numerical techniques are suggested for the solution of this optimization problem, namely the Lagrangian Multipliers technique and the Rosen Gradient Projection technique. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the techniques. Although the Lagrangian Multipliers technique has the advantage of being a well known technique, however, computer wise, the Rosen Gradient Projection ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Since its establishment in 1945, the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) has predominately adhered to a Diversified model of chiropractic technique in the core curriculum; however, many students...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundA wide range of techniques is now available for analyzing regulatory networks. Nonetheless, most of these techniques fail to interpret large-scale transcriptional data...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

This dissertation presents the development of the novel mechanical testing technique of in situ nanoindentation in a transmission electron microscope (TEM). This technique makes it possible to simultaneously observe and quantify the mechanical behavior of nano-scale volumes of solids.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundThe purpose of our investigation was to compare a digital templating system to conventional templating techniques when preoperatively planning for total hip arthroplasty.MethodsWe...Full Text Available

CERN Document Server

Adaptive image processing is one of the most important techniques in visual information processing, especially in early vision such as image restoration, filtering, enhancement, and segmentation. This work focuses on applications of advanced CI techniques in image processing applications

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

PURPOSETo compare hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy and pure laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy techniques in live donor nephrectomy.METHODSIn...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

the techniques employed at present, some of which, like magnetic forming and hotdrape forming, are in experimental stages. Published October 1965. ...

Science.gov (United States)

... spatially defined fashion. Many surface modification techniques require a sequential chemical treatment of the surface.6 ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The development of colorimetry and spectroscopy in the nineteenth century is described. An account is given of the application of their techniques to biological chemistry during that period.

Science.gov (United States)

as magnetic forming and hot-drape forming. Details about the 25 techniques discussed incorporate the most recent improvements and ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

... body body areas diagnostic techniques hazards health hazards mammals

Science.gov (United States)

... Title : ON-LINE MONITORING OF FLUE GAS DESULFURIZATION SCRUBBER CORROSION WITH ELECTROCHEMICAL TECHNIQUES. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The repeated use and limited lifetime of a composite tiring vessel compel a need to survey techniques for monitoring the structural integrity of the vessel in order to determine when it should be retired. Various nondestructive techniques were researched and evaluated based on their applicability to the vessel. The methods were visual inspection, liquid penetrant testing, magnetic particle testing, surface mounted strain gauges, thermal inspection, acoustic emission, ultrasonic testing, radiography, eddy current testing, and embedded fiber optic sensors. It was determined that embedded fiber optic sensor is the most promising technique due to their ability to be embedded within layers of composites and their immunity to electromagnetic interference.

Science.gov (United States)

... 2-93 An Atmospheric Particle Emits Electromagnetic ... atmospheric water vapor produces a hydrometeor. ... subject to wind movement (either blowing ...

Science.gov (United States)

... significant change of spontaneous radiation intensity. It is very sensitive technique allowing the observation of small changes of light absorption. ...

Science.gov (United States)

... concentrated on the construction of switches using fiber ... been chosen for a switch realized in ... of these techniques using acousto-optic modulators or ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Comparison of dosimetry measured in a noncylindrical Rando-Alderson phantom by two-field, four-field, and six-field total-skin electron-beam therapy (TSEBT) techniques with our dual-field rotational (DFR) technique reveals a superior dosimetry for the latter. Our technique of dual-field rotational DFR-TSEBT is described in detail, and its advantages and indications for the primary management of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) and Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) are discussed.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Anesthetic techniques vary widely in the endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (EVAR). Previous studies have demonstrated the feasibility of using local anesthesia. However, the ideal anesthetic technique has not been determined. This study examines whether anesthesic technique influences the outcomes of EVAR. Data regarding demographics, risk factors, procedural characteristics, recovery characteristics, treatment complications, acute ( 0.05, ANOVA). From these results we concluded that EVAR with local anesthesia is a safe and efficacious method that may reduce recovery times and postoperative medical morbidity compared to use of genera1 or spinal/epidural anesthesia.

International Science & Technology Center (ISTC)

Development of a Comprehensive Decontamination Database and an Absorption-Electrochemical Metal Surface Decontamination Technique Combining Chemical and Electrochemical Process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

As a new production technique of yellow cake, resorption with loaded resin-elution with acid ammonium nitrate-precipitation in two steps is studied. The results show that the produced yellow cake by the new production technique has better performance of settlement, filtration and dehydration. Each index of yellow cake accords with the first grade level issued by CNNC without washing, uranium and water content are 70% and 25%, respectively

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This article describes the techniques for monitoring electric power transformers applied by the Light to select and recover critical unities. The plan involved 20 and 40 MV A equipment and, as a reflex of the technique application, presented a substantial failure reduction.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In this study the development of a methodology to detect illicit drugs and plastic explosives is described with the objective of being applied in the realm of public security. For this end, non-destructive assay with neutrons was used and the technique applied was the real time neutron radiography together with computerized tomography. The system is endowed with automatic responses based upon the application of an artificial intelligence technique. In previous tests using real samples, the system proved capable of identifying 97% of the inspected materials.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A new technique is described in this paper for a general active radio frequency (RF) filter trap that can be used for suppressing noise or interference on high voltage (HV) transmission lines. The technique exploits the Miller effect of an RF amplifier in conjunction with a special sensing circuit, and is potentially far more economical to implement than conventional techniques that use passive HV filter components.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Recent Kawasaki Steel's development on size and shape measurement techniques for hot steel rolling processes is reviewed. First, a precision enhancement technique for a laser distance meter is described, then its rugged structure necessary for measurement in such tough environment as hot rolling processes is described in detail. A plate length meters and an inter-stand sensors for a hot strip mill are shown as developed size measurement techniques. Furthermore, plate shape meters and laser profile gauges for H-beams are depicted as specific examples of shape measurement techniques. (author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Anti-jamming techniques to improve Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers robustness have been mainly developed in military applications. None of civilian techniques can procure sufficient robustness against occasional or intentional jammers for civil GPS or GALILEO navigation receivers. The amplitude domain processing (ADP) filtering is a technique based upon Capon works and Neyman-Pearson theory. Several experiments concerning the ADP filtering have been considered at the 3DETSNAV division of LACIME laboratory at Ecole de technologie superieure (ETS), which have proved that the technique is reliable in order to eradicate powerful interference present in the spread spectrum signal. However, the results show that the ADP filter has a real limitation when submitted to multiple interferen...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The use of differential absorption and Raman scattering techniques for the remote sensing of methane in underground coal mines is examined. An analysis of the differential absorption technique showed that non-range resolved systems were incapable of achieving the desired concentration and range specifications and therefore were unsuitable for use in underground coal mines. The Raman scattering technique proved quite successful and a conceptual design which uses the technique is presented. The availability of suitable UV source is critical to the success of the technique however, and to date there is nothing which meets size and portability requirements for a system of this type. Recommendations for further study are included. 19 refs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The application of the phased array technique was limited to heavy and thick wall components as present in the nuclear industry. With the improvement of the equipment and probes other application areas are now open for the phased array technique, e.g. the inspection of the turbine blade root, weld inspection in a wall thickness range between 12 and 40 mm, inspection of aircraft components, inspection of spot welds or inspection of concretes. The aim of the use of phased array techniques has not been changed related to the first applications, i.e. the adaptation of the sound beam to the geometry by steering the angel of incidence or the skewing angle as well as the focussing of sound fields. Due to the fact, that the new applications of the phased array techniques in some cases don't leave the laboratories for the time being, the examples of this contribution will focus applications with ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A technique was developed that permits fluid flow to be visualized even where the flow is completely shrouded by metal. The technique employs real-time neutron radiography, which is similar to x-ray radiography except a collimated beam of neutrons is used. Various combinations of neutron-opaque tracer materials were tested with neutron-transparent fluid. Neutron opaque tracers, such as solid particles, fluid droplets, and streaklines were imaged through metal walls as they convected in neutron-transparent ambient fluid. Visualization of bubbles/voids were evaluated for possible future applications. Surface-flow patterns were also imaged by using neutron-opaque tufts. These techniques were evaluated for image contrast, resolution, and the ability to accurately track fluid flow fields. The techniques were also modeled to optimize contrast in various flow configurations. Imaging ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper presents a numerical study on the formation history of coalbed methane (CBM) reservoir in the southeast edge of Ordos Basin, China. The coal seams studied belong to the Late Palaeozoic coal-bearing series. These coal seams have a burial history and experienced the process of subsidence, rapid subsidence alternated with uplift and then uplift, sequentially, and underwent the geothermal actions at normal, extremely high, and then normal temperatures, respectively. Coal organic matter of the coal seams matured in the Triassic Period and in the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous Period. The results from numerical simulation reveal that CBM reservoir evolution history can be classified into five stages, namely primary, initial, stagnant, active and dissipative stages. In the first (primary) stage, coal rank was very low and there was little methane generated and stored in the coal seams. In the second (initial) stage, the coal was converted to middle-high ...

Science.gov (United States)

This paper proposes a new pattern recognition system employing optical joint transform correlation (JTC) technique which offers a great number of advantages over similar digital techniques, including very fast operation, simple architecture and capability of updating the reference image in real time. The proposed JTC technique incorporates a synthetic discriminant function (SDF) of the target image estimated from different training images to make the pattern recognition performance invariant to noise and distortion. It then involves four different phase-shifted versions of the same target SDF reference image, which are individually joint transform correlated with the given input scene. When the correlation signals are combined, it produces a single cross-correlation peak corresponding to each potential target present in the given input scene. The proposed technique also includes a fringe-adjusted filter ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Improved test techniques are needed for evaluating the inherent stability of middle distillate fuels both in surveillance and in procurement activities. A project was initiated to define and evaluate the contributing conditions leading to the formation of deleterious products in accelerated aging tests of middle distillate fuels and to relate these results to an experimental definition of more repeatable/reliable middle distillate fuel stability test technique(s). A literature search was conducted to provide a list of stability test techniques and their interpretations which could be used in a correlative middle distillate fuel stability test program. For this program, seven accelerated stability tests were chosen and evaluated using a set of six test fuels. The test techniques were selected to represent a wide variety of test conditions, including temperature, aging time, and oxygen availability. These ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The shrinkage of the cement paste with low water-cement ratio at different relative humidity was observed and analyzed with ESEM and deformation map technique. The crack morphology was observed with different magnification with SEM and FESEM, and the formation of the crack was observed with AFM between two C-S-H nano particles. The observation by multi technique at multi scale indicated that the shrinkage was increase with the decrease of the humidity due to the increase of the pressure of the capillary pressure, the morphology of the crack in smaller scale was similar to that in the bigger scale, the smaller crack distributed in the latticework of the bigger ones, and the crack propagated along the gap between two nano particles of C-S-H with weaker bonding.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A review of the literature was undertaken to determine the potential for development of instrumentation for on-board remote sensing of coal quality. This review report acts as an inventory of commercially available techniques being tested or under development, particularly in the areas of the cutting horizon measurement methods associated with longwall mining equipment and coal/waste monitoring techniques in coal handling systems. While technology is available which can discriminate rocks from coal on a conveyor belt, the literature indicates that this hardware has yet to be adapted to continuous surface mining machines. 23 refs., 18 figs.

Science.gov (United States)

Leachability of neutron irradiated fly ash is investigated as a method for studying element leaching properties of this material with various leaching media. Quantitative aspects of radiation damage are shown to be minor. Therefore, the technique should be applicable for this purpose. It is further shown that this technique affords significant advantages over the conventional post-leaching analysis with respect to utilization of natural solutions for the investigation of fly ash leachability. However, for a few elements such as Pb, Bi, V, and Al, the various nuclear parameters involved invalidate applicability of the present technique.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Measurements on laser shock compressed aluminium using the EXAFS (Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure) technique on the Al K-edge are described. Two methods of analysis of this data were used for the determination of density: the standard EXAFS technique using Fourier transforms and curve fitting, and a method based on a bandstructure calculation of the absorption spectra as a function of compression. These two techniques give results which are in fairly good agreement with each other and also with a hydrodynamic simulation of the experiment. The ion correlation parameter is estimated and shows that two-sided laser irradiation of aluminium foils produces a dense plasma which is strongly coupled. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

New technological advances make it possible to perform on site gas-in-oil analysis quickly and efficiently. Gas-in-oil analysis is crucial in assessing the status of oil-filled electrical equipment. The new technique is used for extracting and measuring gases dissolved in electrical insulating oil. On-site sampling requires the use of a specially designed 100 ml capacity syringe. Extraction of the dissolved gases is made with a precise ratio of oil to air. A comparison was made between the analysis of the on-site and the laboratory techniques. Results showed that the detection limits of the on-site technique were comparable to those obtained by laboratory methods.

CERN Document Server

Particle Swarm Optimization technique offers optimal or suboptimal solution to multidimensional rough objective functions. In this paper, this optimization technique is used for designing fractional order PID controllers that give better performance than their integer order counterparts. Controller synthesis is based on required peak overshoot and rise time specifications. The characteristic equation is minimized to obtain an optimum set of controller parameters. Results show that this design method can effectively tune the parameters of the fractional order controller.