Efficiency of a two-phase nozzle for geothermal power generation

In this paper, the performance of a two-phase nozzle, as an expander to generate power is studied. Mostly high pressure and temperature energy sources are investigated in the literature, whereas the possibility of utilizing low temperature energy remains sparsely covered. This paper aims to bridge this knowledge gap. Experiments involve with passing water having temperatures lower than 100 °C through a convergent-divergent nozzle to a low pressure flash tank. The thermal energy of water is converted to kinetic energy in the nozzle. Then by analysing the measured data, the efficiency of the process is evaluated. The pressure and temperature profiles along the nozzle are obtained and compared with the saturated condition. The experimental data provide essential information towards understanding the complex flashing process in the nozzle. The results complement the available data on two phase nozzles for medium to high temperature applications.