Abstract: A method of monitoring the operation of a load in an electrical power distribution system comprises selecting a parameter representing operation of the load, determining an expected characteristic of the parameter during normal operation of the load, and comparing measured values of the parameter with the expected characteristic to detect potential abnormal operation of the load.

Abstract: A method for controlling fouling of a heat exchange surface exposed to a high-enthalpy geothermal brine tending to form silica scale, but containing less than a saturated amount of cations capable of reacting with sulfates. The method adds a limited amount of sulfuric acid to the brine to form a mixture. The amount of sulfuric acid is limited to that required to produce sulfates sufficient to apparently complex with silica, but less than the amount required to increased the sulfates to above saturation amounts of sulfate reacting cations, significantly reducing or virtually eliminating sulfate and silica deposits and fouling. The addition is further controlled to an amount which reduces the pH of the mixture to no less than about 4.5. The addition does not significantly increase corrosion rates of mild steel heat exchanger materials of construction.