Geothermal Patents (Class 60/641.2)
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Patent number: 8661818Abstract: A hot dry rock generation system, having: a recharge well that is formed from the ground to an underground hot dry rock into which a heat carrier streams through the recharge well; a production well that is formed from the underground hot dry rock from which the heated heat carrier is streams through the production well; a power generation plant that converts the thermal energy of the heat carrier streaming out of, into electric energy; a collecting tank that stores the heat carrier discharged from the power generation plant; a sealing water pump that sucks the heat carrier collected in the collecting tank and makes the heat carrier stream into the recharge well, whereby the hot dry rock generation system is provided with a heat exchanger into which the heat carrier streaming out of the production well streams.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2009Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Takashi Nakamura, Koji Hiramoto, Ichiro Nakajo, Yoshiyuki Yokohama
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Patent number: 8656720Abstract: The present invention includes systems and methods to recover heat from a lower quality heat source and convert that heat represented by its temperature differential range into a different form of extractable energy. In various illustrative examples, the system may include a heat recovery heat exchanger, a conventional counter-flow vortex tube, a power producing turbine, a condenser heat exchanger, and a liquid circulating pump. The system further comprises a condenser heat exchanger that is adapted to receive the turbine exhaust vapor, wherein the temperature of the exhaust vapor is reduced via heat transfer rejecting the waste heat to the surrounding atmosphere at atmospheric temperatures; wherein the compressible working vapor is converted to a saturated liquid and returned to the first heat exchanger by pumping means for further cycling.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2011Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Inventor: William David Hardgrave
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Publication number: 20140047836Abstract: A closed-loop, solid-state system generates electricity from geothermal heat from a well by flow of heat, without needing large quantities of water to conduct heat from the ground. The present invention contemplates uses for depleted oil or gas wells and newly drilled wells to generate electricity in an environmentally-friendly method. Geothermal heat is conducted from the Earth to a heat exchanging element to heat the contents of pipes. The pipes are insulated between the bottom of the well and the surface to minimize heat dissipation as the heated contents of the pipes travel to the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: PARDEV, LLCInventor: Michael J. PARRELLA
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Patent number: 8650875Abstract: A single closed loop direct exchange geothermal power production system that utilizes a refrigerant working fluid in at least one of three primary designs to generate electrical power from deep wells: with a first version of a direct exchange geothermal power generating system operating primarily on refrigerant vapor pressure; with a second version of a direct exchange geothermal power generating system operating primarily on liquid refrigerant gravitational pressure; and with a third version of a direct exchange geothermal power generating system operating primarily on both liquid refrigerant gravitational pressure and refrigerant phase change/expansion from a liquid to a vapor state.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: DWPNA, LLCInventors: B. Ryland Wiggs, Richard Thoms
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Patent number: 8650876Abstract: Ammonia sometimes present in geothermal steam increases the solubility of hydrogen sulfide in the steam condensate produced by the surface condenser in a steam cycle geothermal power generating unit by reacting with the hydrogen sulfide to produce nonvolatile ammonium bisulfide. The condenser vent gas also produced contains carbon dioxide. Contacting the steam condensate with the condenser vent gas at a pressure slightly greater than atmospheric causes carbon dioxide to dissolve in the condensate, decreasing pH and converting bisulfide ion back to hydrogen sulfide. Subsequently exposing the acidified condensate to condenser vacuum strips the hydrogen sulfide from the condensate, eliminating the need for further chemical treatment of the condensate to prevent air pollution. Hydrogen sulfide partitioning performance is further improved by converting the hydrogen sulfide in the vent gas to sulfur dioxide before contacting it with the condensate.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: ChemTreat, Inc.Inventor: Oleh Weres
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Patent number: 8640462Abstract: A geothermal energy system utilizes geothermal heat under the floor of a body of water. The system includes at least one well having a top and a bottom. At least one well is drilled to a sufficient depth to access geothermal heat from one or more areas under the floor. The system further includes at least one energy converter operatively coupled to the well. The at least one energy converter is configured to convert the geothermal heat to another form of energy.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2009Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Inventor: James H. Shnell
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Publication number: 20140026568Abstract: The disclosure describes trench-confirmable geothermal reservoirs that can snugly abut trench walls (that may be of virgin, compacted earth) for facilitating heat exchange and flow liquid from one lower end to an opposing top end, and vice versa, depending on desired heat exchange. The direction can be reversed for summer and winter heat/cooling configurations. A series of the reservoirs may be used for appropriate heat transfer. The water volume of the reservoirs is relatively large and slow moving for good earth heat conduction.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2013Publication date: January 30, 2014Inventor: Gary Scott Peele
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Publication number: 20140028033Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for pressure recovery and power generation may include a pressure recovery generator configured to receive a high-pressure fluid and generate current based on expansion of the high-pressure fluid. The current may be directed to a power electronics module that is configured to receive current from the pressure recovery generator and provide current to a closed-loop thermal cycle, such as an ORC. The current can be used to start components of the closed-loop thermal cycle, such as the pump and/or to black start the turbine generator. In some instances, the current can be combined with current generated by the closed-loop thermal cycle and directed to a utility grid or to external loads. The high-pressure fluid may be directed to heat exchanger components of the closed-loop cycle. For example, high-pressure, high-temperature fluid can be directed to an evaporator, while high-pressure, low-temperature fluid can be directed to a condenser.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2012Publication date: January 30, 2014Inventors: Parsa Mirmobin, Dennis Strouse
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Publication number: 20140013744Abstract: The invention relates to an underground liquid-management system for mines for generating and/or storing energy, for storing and/or cleaning liquids located in the mine, comprising: at least one first store, which is formed by a cavity of the mine, at least one second store, the bottom of which is arranged above the bottom of the first store, at least one line connecting the stores in order to conduct the liquid, at least one pumping device for conveying the liquid through the lines from the first store into the second store, and a geothermal device at least for operating the pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: LUXIN (GREEN PLANET) AGInventors: Holger Burkhardt, Arthur Glanzmann
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Patent number: 8616000Abstract: A closed-loop, solid-state system generates electricity from geothermal heat from a well by flow of heat, without needing large quantities of water to conduct heat from the ground. The present invention contemplates uses for depleted oil or gas wells and newly drilled wells to generate electricity in an environmentally-friendly method. Geothermal heat is conducted from the Earth to a heat exchanging element to heat the contents of pipes. The pipes are insulated between the bottom of the well and the surface to minimize heat dissipation as the heated contents of the pipes travel to the surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2009Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Inventor: Michael J. Parrella
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Publication number: 20130333383Abstract: A closed-loop heat exchange system and related methods for harnessing subterranean heat energy from a subterranean zone having a passive heat transfer device with multiple operational modes for targeting hotspots within the subterranean zone and adjusting the rate of energy harnessed according to consumption demands. The system can also have at least one enhanced surface section for increasing the heat exchange efficiency and/or a variable pump for controlling the rate at which the working fluid travels through the passive heat transfer device.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2011Publication date: December 19, 2013Applicant: GLOBAL CARBON SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventor: Matthew N. Schwarck
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Publication number: 20130327042Abstract: Disclosed is a power generation system that includes a heat source loop, a heat engine loop, and a heat reclaiming loop. The heat can be waste heat from a steam turbine, industrial process or refrigeration or air-conditioning system, solar heat collectors or geothermal sources. Heat from the heat source loop is introduced into the heat reclaiming loop or heat engine loop. The power generation system further includes a heat reclaiming loop having a fluid that extracts heat from the heat engine loop. The fluid of the heat reclaiming loop is then raised to a higher temperature and then placed in heat exchange relationship with the working fluid of the heat engine loop. The power generating system is capable of using low temperature waste heat that is approximately 150 degrees F. or less.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2013Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: American Thermal Power, LLCInventors: Robert F. Waterstripe, Gary P. Hoffman
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Patent number: 8601814Abstract: A geothermal based, binary cycle power plant is provided, comprising: a vaporizer for vaporizing pre-heated organic motive fluid by means of geothermal steam; two organic vapor turbines operating in parallel and coupled to a common generator, each of said turbines being driven by vaporized organic motive fluid supplied to each turbine; two recuperators for heating the organic motive fluid by means of a corresponding organic vapor turbine discharge; and two condensers for condensing heat depleted motive fluid exiting said two recuperators, respectively. A geothermal steam condensate recovery system is also provided, comprising a source of geothermal steam for vaporizing a organic motive fluid and producing geothermal steam condensate, and conduit means through which geothermal steam condensate is delivered to a supply of cooling liquid used to condense the organic motive fluid, the delivered geothermal steam condensate serving as make-up liquid for evaporated cooling liquid.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2011Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Ormat Technologies Inc.Inventors: Uri Kaplan, Dany Batscha, Shai Raveh
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Patent number: 8596066Abstract: A closed Rankine cycle power plant using an organic working fluid includes a solar trough collector for heating an organic working fluid, a flash vaporizer for vaporizing the heated organic working fluid, a turbine receiving and expanding the vaporized organic working fluid for producing power or electricity, a condenser for condensing the expanded organic working fluid and a pump for circulating the condensed organic working fluid to the solar trough collector. Heated organic working fluid in the flash vaporizer that is not vaporized is returned to the solar trough collector.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2010Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Ormat Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Ohad Zimron, Lucien Y. Bronicki
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Publication number: 20130300127Abstract: A method and apparatus for recovering geothermal heat from abandoned sub sea oil wells and converting it to electricity which is then transmitted via cable to an onshore station for distribution to the electric grid. To accomplish this we insert a unique heat transfer recovery pipe into the well bore of these dormant oil wells and transfer the heat from the oil/brine and rocks surrounding these wells and the oil and brine in the lower portion of these wells to a continuous stream of a fluid such as water which is pumped through the heat transfer pipe to a vessel located on the ocean floor or on a water surface platform. This hot fluid will be continuously pumped to a heat exchanger to exchange heat to another heat transfer gas which will drive a turbine. The turbine will drive a generator to produce electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2012Publication date: November 14, 2013Inventor: Arthur Robert DiNicolantonio
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Patent number: 8572966Abstract: A heat engine apparatus for use in association with a borehole and a method of operating a heat engine in association with a borehole. The apparatus includes a first heat exchanger assembly in fluid communication with a proximal segment of the borehole, a second heat exchanger assembly in fluid communication with a distal segment of the borehole, a circulation barrier for providing a seal between the apparatus and the borehole in order to isolate the proximal segment of the borehole and the distal segment of the borehole from each other, and a heat engine associated with the first heat exchanger assembly and the second heat exchanger assembly, wherein the heat engine is a gas phase closed cycle thermodynamic heat engine. The first heat exchanger assembly, the second heat exchanger assembly, the circulation barrier and the heat engine are all adapted to be inserted in the borehole.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2010Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Inventor: Edward James Cargill
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Publication number: 20130283792Abstract: A thermal power station system has at least one heat engine connected to at least one work receiver. The heat engine is arranged to be able to utilize a working fluid alternating between liquid and gas phase. In the heat engine is arranged at least one heat exchanger in thermal contact with at least one expansion chamber. A method is for energy supply to a building or a vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2011Publication date: October 31, 2013Applicant: VIKING HEAT ENGINES ASInventor: Harald Nes Risla
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Publication number: 20130283791Abstract: A hydroelectric and geothermal system includes a fluid communication channel that includes a first portion that extends from the earth's surface toward a subterranean hot area, a second portion connected to the first portion and in thermal communication with the subterranean hot area, and a third portion connected to the second portion and that extends to the earth's surface. A first turbine generator is configured to convert kinetic energy of a fluid flowing substantially under the influence of gravity in the first portion of the fluid communication channel into electrical energy. A second turbine generator is configured to convert kinetic energy of a vapor flowing within or out from the third portion of the fluid communication channel into electrical energy. The system also includes a valve arrangement configured for manipulation to hold the fluid in the second portion of the fluid communication channel in thermal communication with the subterranean hot area to produce the vapor.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2013Publication date: October 31, 2013Inventor: William Riley
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Patent number: 8561405Abstract: A waste heat recovery system includes at least two integrated rankine cycle systems coupled to at least two separate heat sources having different temperatures. The first rankine cycle system is coupled to a first heat source and configured to circulate a first working fluid. The second rankine cycle system is coupled to at least one second heat source and configured to circulate a second working fluid. The at least one second heat source includes a lower temperature heat source than the first heat source. The first and second working fluid are circulatable in heat exchange relationship through a cascading heat exchange unit for condensation of the first working fluid in the first rankine cycle system and evaporation of the second working fluid in the second rankine cycle system.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2007Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Gabor Ast, Michael Adam Bartlett, Thomas Johannes Frey, Matthew Alexander Lehar
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Patent number: 8561407Abstract: A hybrid solar collector and geothermal system collects low grade heat energy derived from the sun. A simple heat engine converts this energy into mechanical energy, and then into electrical energy using an air-motor-generator setup, by exploiting the difference in temperature between the solar collector and the geothermal heat sinks. Waste heat trapped in an attic is directed to the solar collector to supplement the collection of low grade heat energy. In addition, cryogenic liquid is used to create the temperature difference in the geothermal heat sink when low grade heat energy is unavailable. This system does not produce any CO2 because it does not use combustion to produce electricity.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2009Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Inventor: Eddie Sines
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Patent number: 8549857Abstract: Methods and/or systems using magnetically assisted pressurization of a gas for the generation of useful power from heat transfer using heat sources at lower temperatures in a manner that does not require the emission of CO2.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2007Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Inventor: Christopher J. Papile
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Publication number: 20130247569Abstract: A valve arrangement (16) for a geothermal steam turbine generator (10) comprises first and second steam control valves (18, 20) for regulating the supply of steam to the steam turbine generator (10). The first and second steam control valves are arranged in parallel in a steam supply line (24) and the first steam control valve (18) has a smaller fully-open diameter than the second steam control valve (20). The first steam control valve (18) is arranged to regulate the volume flow rate of steam supplied to the steam turbine generator (10) during a speed-control phase, until the steam turbine generator (10) attains a predetermined rotational speed at which it can be connected to an ac electrical system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2013Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicant: ALSTOM Technology LtdInventor: Franz Suter
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Patent number: 8539771Abstract: A thermodynamic engine is configured to convert heat provided in the form of a temperature difference to a nonheat form of energy. Heat is directed through a heating loop in thermal contact with a first side of the thermodynamic engine. A second side of the thermodynamic engine is coupled to an environmental cooling loop in thermal contact with an environmental cooling device. The thermodynamic engine is operated to dispense heat from the second side of the thermodynamic engine through the environmental cooling loop into the environmental cooling device. Operation of the thermodynamic engine thereby generates the nonheat form of energy from the temperature difference established between the first side and the second side of the thermodynamic engine.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2011Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Cool Energy, Inc.Inventors: Brian P. Nuel, Lee S. Smith, Samuel P. Weaver, Samuel C. Weaver, Daniel Weaver
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Patent number: 8534069Abstract: A control system manages and optimizes a geothermal electric generation system from one or more wells that individually produce heat. The control system includes heat sensors that measure temperature and fluid flow and are placed at critical points in the wells, in piping, in a hot fluid reservoir, in a cold fluid reservoir and in a cooling system. The control system also includes pump and valve controls, generator controls, a network for gathering information and delivering instructions, and a processing module that collects information and communicates control information to each component.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2009Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Inventor: Michael J. Parrella
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Publication number: 20130232973Abstract: This invention provides a method of extracting geothermal energy, generally comprising the steps of: insertion of a thermal mass into a Heat Absorption Zone, absorbing heat in thermal mass, raising the thermal mass to a Heat Transfer Zone, and transferring the heat from the thermal mass. The acquired heat can be used to generate electricity or to drive an industrial process. The thermal mass can have internal chambers containing a liquid such as molten salt, and can also have structures facilitating heat exchange using a thermal exchange fluid, such as a gas or a glycol-based fluid. In some embodiments, two thermal masses are used as counterweights, reducing the energy consumed in bringing the heat in the thermal masses to the surface. In other embodiments, solid or molten salt can be directly supplied to a well shaft to acquire geothermal heat and returned to the surface in a closed loop system.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2013Publication date: September 12, 2013Inventor: David Alan McBay
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Publication number: 20130227947Abstract: For increasing power plant efficiency during periods of variable heat input or at partial loads, a motive fluid is cycled through a Rankine cycle power plant having a vaporizer and a superheater such that the motive fluid is delivered to a turbine at a selected inlet temperature at full admission. A percentage of a superheated portion of the motive fluid is adjusted during periods of variable heat input or at partial loads while virtually maintaining the inlet temperature and power plant thermal efficiency.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2012Publication date: September 5, 2013Applicant: Ormat Technologies Inc.Inventors: Lucien Y. BRONICKI, David MACHLEV
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Publication number: 20130199181Abstract: A geothermal power generation system configured to generate power by suspending turbine engines over a pit exposing a geothermal energy source is disclosed. The geothermal power generation system may include a support structure sized to a pit and at least one turbine engine hanging below the support structure. One or more turbine engine deployment systems may be configured to move the turbine engine, i.e. raise or lower, such that a distance between the turbine engine and the geothermal energy source changes. In one embodiment, the turbine engine deployment system may be formed from a plurality of cables extending from a rotatable cable drum on the support structure and downward from a plurality of pulleys positioned along the pulley track. The support structure may also include a pulley track extending from the first base to the second base. One or more electrical transmission lines may extend from the turbine engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2012Publication date: August 8, 2013Inventor: Tessema Dosho Shifferaw
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Publication number: 20130199180Abstract: A geothermal power generation system configured to generate power by suspending turbine engines over a pit exposing a geothermal energy source is disclosed. The geothermal power generation system may include a support structure sized to a pit and at least one turbine engine hanging below the support structure. One or more turbine engine deployment systems may be configured to move the turbine engine, i.e. raise or lower, such that a distance between the turbine engine and the geothermal energy source changes. In one embodiment, the turbine engine deployment system may be formed from a plurality of cables extending from a rotatable cable drum on the support structure and downward from a plurality of pulleys positioned along the pulley track. The support structure may also include a pulley track extending from the first base to the second base. One or more electrical transmission lines may extend from the turbine engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2012Publication date: August 8, 2013Inventor: Tessema Dosho Shifferaw
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Publication number: 20130199182Abstract: A geothermal power generation system configured to generate power by suspending turbine engines over a pit exposing a geothermal energy source is disclosed. The geothermal power generation system may include a support structure sized to a pit and at least one turbine engine hanging below the support structure. One or more turbine engine deployment systems may be configured to move the turbine engine, i.e. raise or lower, such that a distance between the turbine engine and the geothermal energy source changes. In one embodiment, the turbine engine deployment system may be formed from a plurality of cables extending from a rotatable cable drum on the support structure and downward from a plurality of pulleys positioned along the pulley track. The support structure may also include a pulley track extending from the first base to the second base. One or more electrical transmission lines may extend from the turbine engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2012Publication date: August 8, 2013Inventor: Tessema Dosho Shifferaw
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Publication number: 20130167530Abstract: A heat take-out device comprising an external tube, an internal tube and a pressure resistance element is provided. The external tube defines an evaporating region, a condensing region and an adiabatic region. The internal tube is deposed within the external tube and separated from the external tube by a flow channel. The pressure resistance element is deposed within the flow channel and adjacent to a conjoint portion between the adiabatic region and the evaporating region. The length of the pressure resistance element is shorter than that of the adiabatic region.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2012Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTEInventor: Industrial Technology Research Institute
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Patent number: 8474260Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for generating power from thermal energy stored in a fluid extracted during the recovery of heavy oil. The method includes the steps of vaporizing a working fluid in a binary cycle using thermal energy stored in the extracted fluid, converting the vaporized working fluid total energy into mechanical power using a positive displacement expander, and condensing the vaporized working fluid back to a liquid phase.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2009Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Geotrend Power Inc.Inventors: Alexandre A. Borissov, Anatoly A. Borissov
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Publication number: 20130152596Abstract: A fossil fuel-fired power station having a removal apparatus for carbon dioxide which is located downstream of a combustion facility and through which an offgas containing carbon dioxide may flow is provided. The removal apparatus comprises an absorption unit and a desorption unit. The desorption unit is connected to a renewable energy source.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2011Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Hermann Kremer, Nicolas Vortmeyer
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Patent number: 8464530Abstract: A control system manages and optimizes a geothermal electric generation system from one or more wells that individually produce heat. The control system includes heat sensors that measure temperature and fluid flow and are placed at critical points in the wells, in piping, in a hot fluid reservoir, in a cold fluid reservoir and in a cooling system. The control system also includes pump and valve controls, generator controls, a network for gathering information and delivering instructions, and a processing module that collects information and communicates control information to each component.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2009Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Inventor: Michael J. Parrella
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Publication number: 20130104545Abstract: Embodiments of the invention utilize the geothermal energy exchanger and battery (GEEB) to recover and store thermal energy from the dwelling, from the ground, and from the Earth's atmosphere, reuse the thermal energy in another season of the year, and consume electrical energy to heat and cool the structure at electrical Off Peak time periods. The GEEB may be constructed of a compact steel, ribbed and waterproof permanent container that is set at a depth beneath the surface of the ground where the normal soil temperature is virtually constant year round. The container can then be encased in poured concrete, with the exception of piping or conduits. The container is then filled with a heat transfer fluid so that the entire thermal mass of the GEEB and heat transfer fluid reaches the ambient ground temperature and efficiently couples the load and source sides of a heating and cooling system.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2011Publication date: May 2, 2013Inventor: Daniel M. Gandy
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Publication number: 20130093192Abstract: A mechanically decoupled, fluid displacing Sterling engine includes first and second containers, first and second fluid conduits mounted to the containers, a pump mounted in cooperation with the second conduit for selectively pumping fluid between the containers, a processor controlling the pump, a third fluid conduit whose lower end extends into the lower end of the second container, a fluid motivated actuator mounted to the third conduit. The first and second containers contain an actuating volume of an actuating fluid and a working gas. Expanding of the gas actuates the actuator. The volume of the containers is pressurized by a geothermal temperature differential. The pump displaces the actuating fluid between the containers so as to correspondingly displace the gas for heating or cooling to provide the temperature differential to the gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2011Publication date: April 18, 2013Inventor: John Lee Warren
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Publication number: 20130091841Abstract: A multi cycle geothermal power plant (5) has at least the following cycles: a primary cycle (10) configured for a geothermal reservoir fluid; a closed loop second cycle (20) having a vaporizer (7), spanning the primary cycle (10) and second cycle (20), for transferring thermal energy from the primary cycle (10) to the second cycle (20); and at least one further closed loop water/steam cycle (30) having a heat exchanger (8), spanning the primary cycle (10) and each further cycle (30), for transferring thermal energy from the primary cycle (10) to each further cycle (30). By providing indirect secondary cycles, the power plant (5) is capable of exploiting high impurity wells with high energy extraction efficiency.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2012Publication date: April 18, 2013Inventors: Celine Mahieux, Christophe Doublet, Markus Fluck, François André Girard, Michael Hiegemann
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Patent number: 8418466Abstract: The present invention is directed at the thermodynamic property amplification of a given thermal supply, provided by hydrocarbon combustion or in the preferred application heat provided by low-grade geothermal energy from the earth, for a vapor power cycle. The present invention achieves the desired objectives by segregating the compressible supercritical energy stream from the heat exchanger (boiler) into hot and cool fractions using a vortex tube, where the hot temperature is elevated above the heat exchanger temperature; and adding back heat (enthalpy) to the cool stream increasing the cool temperature to that of the geothermal heat exchanger.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2010Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Inventor: David Hardgrave
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Patent number: 8418465Abstract: This invention uses an innovative closed-loop steam cycle with a primary geothermal boiler and a recirculating arrangement to deliver a portion of the enthalpy of that produced steam as a higher temperature and pressure steam to the surface. The geothermal boiler operates at as low a pressure as needed to boil water using heat from relatively low-temperature geologic formations typically found in abandoned oil wells. This system can be deployed in such well bores to extract geothermal energy either as a stand-alone enterprise or in conjunction with tertiary oil recovery efforts. The geothermally-boiled steam provides most or all of the energy to power the process. It is the ability of this system to extract useful heat from below atmospheric boiling temperature heat sources that offers its greatest potential.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2010Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: FOI Group, LLCInventor: David Murray Munson, Jr.
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Publication number: 20130081393Abstract: A condenser for an axial flow exhaust type steam turbine having a condenser unit which condenses steam exhausted from the steam turbine as directly contacting cooling water from a spray nozzle, a cooling tower which generates the cooling water as receiving and accumulating water condensed by the condenser unit, a water circulating pipe which supplies water condensed by the condenser unit to the cooling tower, a water return circulating pipe which supplies the cooling water generated by the cooling tower to the condenser unit, and wherein a pump is arranged at the water return circulating pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2012Publication date: April 4, 2013Inventors: Yuko KAMIHASHI, Yoichi Sugimori
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Patent number: 8407027Abstract: An online diagnostic system for a geothermal generation facility is discloses that includes an automatic steam measurement device for measuring a characteristic of steam to be supplied to a steam turbine from a steam-water separator at the geothermal generation facility that outputs analysis data. A monitor-control device controls an operation of the geothermal generation facility while monitoring the geothermal generation facility. A diagnostic device performs at least one of an evaluation of a steam characteristic at the geothermal generation facility, an evaluation of the steam-water separator, and an evaluation of pulsation and confluence of a production well based on the analysis data from the automatic steam measurement device and performance data of the geothermal generation facility from the monitor-control device. An operating status of the geothermal generation facility is diagnosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2009Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignees: Fuji Electric Systems Co., Ltd., Geothermal Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ichiro Myougan, Toshikazu Kato, Isamu Osawa, Yasuyuki Hishi, Daisuke Fukuda, Yasuto Futagoishi, Toshiaki Aoki
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Patent number: 8398862Abstract: A method for extracting energy from hydrocarbons located in a geologic reservoir is presented, including the steps of: oxidizing the hydrocarbons; extracting heat generated from oxidizing the hydrocarbons, relocating oxidized gases away from the oxidizing hydrocarbons; and replenishing oxygen towards the oxidizing hydrocarbons. The extraction of heat further includes: evaporating a liquid; transferring the evaporated liquid to the surface; and recovering low-NaCl, low-precipitate water from the evaporated liquid. The replenishing of oxygen towards the oxidizing hydrocarbons further includes: generating oxygen from water; and transferring the generated oxygen toward the oxidizing hydrocarbons; and combining hydrogen derived from the generating step with surface oxygen, whereby heat and low-precipitate, pure water is produced.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2009Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Inventor: Charles Saron Knobloch
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Publication number: 20130062890Abstract: Novel carbon dioxide-based geothermal energy generation systems, i.e., carbon plume geothermal (CPG) systems, and methods are provided. With the novel systems and methods described herein, geothermal energy can now be provided at lower temperatures and at locations other than hot, dry rock formations, without negatively impacting the surrounding area through use of large-scale hydrofracturing. Use of a carbon dioxide-based geothermal system further provides a means for sequestering and storing excess carbon dioxide, rather than having it released to the atmosphere.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2012Publication date: March 14, 2013Applicant: Regents of the University of MinnesotaInventor: Regents of the University of Minnesota
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Publication number: 20130056171Abstract: Methods are described for using heated fluids from enhanced geothermal systems projects that recover geothermal heat from hot dry rock resources, and then injecting the heated pressurized fluids into a suitable rock formation to create an artificial geothermal energy reservoir. The artificial geothermal reservoir can then be used to store thermal energy by boosting the enthalpy of injected fluids by exchanging against heated fluids from other sources including a solar thermal power plant. Recovered heated fluids are utilized in a geothermal power plant and the spent geothermal fluids can be injected to recover additional thermal energy from hot dry rock resources. One embodiment is a geosolar electric power generation project to provide a steady and flexible source of renewable energy from a hot dry rock geothermal source integrated with a concentrating solar power project.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2011Publication date: March 7, 2013Applicant: Skibo Systems LLCInventor: Paul M. Klemencic
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Publication number: 20130055714Abstract: A method of harnessing geothermal energy to produce electricity by lowering a geothermal generator deep into a pre-drilled well bore below the Earth's surface. The Self Contained In-Ground Geothermal Generator (SCI-GGG) includes a boiler, a turbine compartment, an electricity generator, a condenser and produces electricity down at the heat sources and transports it up to the ground surface by cable. The Self Contained Heat Exchanger (SCHE) is integral part of (SCI-GGG) system and can function independently. It consists of a closed loop system with two heat exchangers. No pollution is emitted during production process. There is no need for hydro-thermal reservoirs although not limited to hot rocks. It can be implemented in many different applications. The SCHE also includes an in-line water pump operatively coupled to the closed loop system and can be used in many different applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2012Publication date: March 7, 2013Inventor: Nikola Lakic
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Patent number: 8381523Abstract: Two Geothermal energy harnessing devices, steam producing System, electricity production Method and heat energy Method are invented for mining renewable geothermal heat energy within a non-polluting, re-circulating, closed cycle intended for electricity generating applications or for other direct or indirect heat uses. The devices, the “Geothermal Energy Collector” and the “Geothermal Energy Exchanger” can work with a Depressurized Mixing Container and a Pressurized Storage Container the entirety of which comprises “THE GEOTHERMAL FLUID HEATING OR STEAM PRODUCTION SYSTEM. The system serves other equipment, such as a phase separator, steam turbine, generator and condenser, which working together with the system comprises either “THE GEOTHERMAL ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION METHOD” or “THE GEOTHERMAL HEAT ENERGY METHOD”.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2009Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Inventors: Zadok Eli, Bruce J. Kolinski
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Patent number: 8375716Abstract: A method and system for generating electrical power for sub-sea applications includes assembling each of the main components (132, 138, 142, 146) of an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system (100) inside a pressure vessel to form a series of vessels (104, 106, 108, 110) removably connected to one another and configured to be placed near, on or below a sea floor. The main components of the ORC system include an evaporator (132), a turbine (138), a condenser (142) and a pump (146). A working fluid (135) is circulated through the pressure vessels in order to generate mechanical shaft power that is converted to electrical power (P). In some embodiments, the ORC system includes at least one redundant component that corresponds to one of the main components. The working fluid may be circulated through at least one redundant ORC component such that the ORC system is able to continue operating when one of more of the main components is not operating properly.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Sitaram Ramaswamy, Sean P. Breen
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Patent number: 8371122Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to geothermal power generation systems. The systems can comprise a first separator is in fluid communication with the geothermal fluid source, the first separator having a high pressure steam outlet and a liquid fraction outlet. A high pressure turbine is in fluid communication with the high pressure steam outlet and is coupled to a first power generator. A high pressure condenser is in fluid communication with the high pressure turbine. A low pressure separator is in fluid communication with the liquid fraction outlet of the first separator, the low pressure separator being capable of separating steam from the liquid fraction outflow and providing low pressure steam through a low pressure steam conduit. A low pressure turbine is in fluid communication with the low pressure steam conduit, the low pressure turbine being coupled to a second power generator. A main condenser is in fluid communication with the low pressure turbine.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2009Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Power Engineers, Inc.Inventor: William E. Lewis
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Patent number: 8365815Abstract: A system for the exploitation of geothermal heat and for conveying and decontaminating ground water is disclosed. The system comprises a main pipe (20), arranged in a pit (10) of well and is subdivided into an upper and a lower part by a transverse seal (21). The transverse seal has an opening in which a pump (22) is arranged which delivers water from the lower part of the main pipe. The pump is connected to a delivery pipe (30) which is connected to an overground closed circuit. The closed circuit at its other end leads to the upper part of the main pipe and the main pipe has through openings (23) towards the surroundings upstream and downstream of the transverse seal. The main pipe is surrounded by a porous bed which surrounds the hollow space of the pit around the main pipe. The porous bed is interrupted by a sealing material (12) at the level of the transverse seal so that the porous bed is hydraulically interrupted. The use of the system is also described.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2008Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Geo-En Energy Technologies GmbHInventor: Michael Viernickel
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Publication number: 20130025278Abstract: The present invention provides a method for operating a plurality of independent, closed cycle power plant modules each having a vaporizer comprising the steps of serially supplying a medium or low temperature source fluid to each corresponding vaporizer of one or more first plant modules, respectively, to a secondary preheater of a first module, and to a vaporizer of a terminal module, whereby to produce heat depleted source fluid; providing a primary preheater for each vaporizer; and supplying said heat depleted source fluid to all of said primary preheaters in parallel.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2011Publication date: January 31, 2013Applicant: Ormat Technologies Inc.Inventor: Dany BATSCHA
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Publication number: 20130014506Abstract: A distribution pipeline power plant, comprising: an input, configured to receive a fluid that has been heated using energy derived from a geothermal field; an expander, configured to extract energy from the fluid that has been heated using energy derived from a geothermal field; and an output configured to transfer at least some of the energy extracted from the fluid that has been heated using energy derived from a geothermal field to a circulator to drive a further fluid along a distribution pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2012Publication date: January 17, 2013Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLCInventors: Paul FLETCHER, Philip P. WALSH, Aaron J. STEVENS