Energy - Geothermal

The utilization of geothermal water as an energy source for power generation and district heating applications has significantly increased over the past decades, driven in part by the urgency of global warming. This upward trend is expected to continue, leading to the construction of more geothermal plants worldwide to harness this CO2-neutral energy source. However, this shift also introduces unique operational challenges, particularly for the valves used in geothermal systems. The core concept of geothermal energy technology involves tapping into the Earth's heat, which is stored in geothermal water within the Earth's crust, and channeling it into district heating systems. The geothermal water naturally ascends to a height of approximately 150 meters (492 feet). Depending on the geographical location, the water reaches the surface at temperatures ranging from 120 to 130 degrees Celsius (248 to 266 degrees Fahrenheit). This geothermal water presents specific challenges due to its salt content, which is highly corrosive, and its propensity to cause scaling in the pipes, potentially leading to blockages. As a result, the selection and maintenance of valves in geothermal applications are critical to ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the system.