Analysis of the binary cycle for geothermal power generation

Abstract

Exchanging heat from hot geothermal fluid to a secondary working fluid which i s then expanded through a turbine appears to be the best way of producing electrical power from a medium temperature geothermal resource.A study has been made to determine the conceptual design state points for a dual boiling system which utilizes isobutane as the working fluid. This paper presents the results of this work and the sensitivity of plant performance to variations from nominal design point. In addition, variations due to tolerances applied to thermodynamic properties and other key factors are included.