EWE
Testing and further development of a prototype for scale removal using the electro-pulse method for the excavation of geothermal production pipes
| Funding: | Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, application-oriented non-nuclear R&D in the 8th Energy Research Program of the Federal Government |
| Funding code: | 03EE4079B |
| Partner: | TU Bergakademie Freiberg WiE GmbH |
| Associated partners: | SWM Service GmbH Bohrmaus GmbH HMV Höne Metall Verarbeitung GmbH Sirius-ES Germany GmbH MB Well Services GmbH H. Anger’s Söhne geopfalz GmbH & Co. KG Geothermische Kraftwerksgesellschaft Traunreut mbH |
| Term: | 12/2025 - 11/2029 |
| Contact: | Erik Mosig |
Scales in Förderrohren
Scales can occur in geothermal plants at different locations and in various forms. These are mineral deposits of substances that precipitate out of the extracted geothermal water. This is caused by the decreasing solubility of salt ions in the water due to the drop in temperature and pressure, which occurs abruptly at diameter transitions in the delivery pipe, for example. The substances that then precipitate are deposited on the pipe walls and form a layer that grows rapidly in some cases (up to a few cm per year). The resulting narrowing of the free pipe cross-section reduces the pumping capacity and effectiveness of the geothermal system. This process can lead to complete blockage of the pipe.
Conventionally, mechanical or chemical processes are used to remove the deposits. However, the use of these methods is associated with increased effort and higher costs. In addition, damage to the delivery pipes can occur. Furthermore, environmental issues regarding the use of chemical cleaning agents must be taken into account.
Schema: Elektroimpulsverfahren zur Lösung von Scalestücke
The aim of the proposed project is to develop a new type of tool for removing scales from installed geothermal production pipes. This works on the basis of the electrical impulse process (EIV) and removes pieces of scale from pipe walls by discharging high-voltage pulses between the tool and the pipe.
The work will be based on the experimental testing of an existing prototype tool for removing scales from 4 1/2'' pipes. This prototype will be examined for weak points and its functionality evaluated. Based on this, a further prototype for 13 3/8'' pipes will be developed, manufactured and tested, which is intended for the removal of scales from larger pipe diameters that are typical for geothermal energy. However, the existing tool cannot easily be scaled up to a larger pipe diameter as, among other things, components have to be newly developed and harmonized. Furthermore, fundamental new functionalities will be implemented in the new prototype. To this end, scientific questions need to be investigated and previously unexplored aspects highlighted.
