With a neat sketch, explain dry steam based geothermal power plant

Geothermal-Based Electric Power Generation:

Dry Steam Power Plants

Geothermal-based electric power generation involves converting geothermal energy, derived from Earth’s internal heat, into electricity.

Among the various technologies available for this purpose, dry steam-based geothermal power plants are one of the oldest and most established methods.

Dry Steam Geothermal Power Plants

• Operation:
  • In dry steam geothermal power plants, steam from underground reservoirs is directly used to drive turbines, which, in turn, generate electricity. This process is relatively straightforward compared to other geothermal technologies.
  • The steam extracted from the geothermal reservoir is piped to the turbine where it expands, causing the turbine blades to rotate. The turbine is connected to a generator, converting the mechanical energy into electrical energy.
• Technology History:
  • The first dry steam geothermal plant was established in 1904 in Larderello, Italy, marking the beginning of geothermal power generation.
  • Over the past century, there have been incremental technological advancements that have improved the efficiency and reliability of these systems.
• Technical Components:
  • Rock Catcher: Removes large solid particles from the steam.
  • Centrifugal Separator: Extracts condensate (liquid water) and small solid particles from the steam.
  • Condensate Drains: Installed along the pipeline to manage condensate.
  • Final Scrubber: Removes fine particulates and dissolved solids from the steam before it enters the turbine, ensuring the steam is as clean as possible to prevent turbine damage.

Current Usage: Despite their simplicity, dry steam reservoirs are rare. As of now, dry steam plants contribute to less than 40% of geothermal-electricity production in the U.S., with all operational plants located at The Geysers in California (one of the largest dry steam fields in the world.)

Limitations:

• Resource Availability: Dry steam reservoirs are rare, limiting the widespread adoption of this technology.
• Environmental Concerns: There are environmental concerns related to the release of non-condensable gases and potential subsidence if the reservoir is not managed properly