Analysis of a Geothermal Pilot Plant with a Medium-Enthalpy Binary Cycle, Ubinas, Moquegua

Abstract

In a social scenario of energy deficit, the need emerge to propose alternatives for generating clean, sustainable and environmentally friendly energy. Whitin this framework, the study proposed the analysis of a 10MW geothermal power plant using a Medium-Enthalpy Binary Cycle, in Ubinas, Moquegua. Three fluids were used: n-pentane, isopentane and isobutane. It corresponds to applied, non-experimental research. In the data collection process, values of pressure, temperature, and heat conversion rate were collected; as well as estimates of the proposed design considering calculated and observed powers. It was found that it was not possible to reach a power of 10 MW, though it is possible to size geothermal plants with the three fluids considered, of lower power, but with differences between them in favor of isobutane, which reached values of 8,566 MW as calculated power. and 7,281 MW as real power. In conclusion, with none of the fluids the required power of 10 MW could be reached, although lower powers were achieved, useful for partial needs of the surrounding population.