Pressure loss through rock fracture intersections
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Over time, the extraction and reinjection of geothermal fluid to generate electricity results in a decrease in the overall pressure of a geothermal reservoir. This results in the precipitation of minerals that cause blockages in the power station equipment and the rock fractures in the reservoir; as well as a lower flow rate available for electricity generation. A better understanding of fluid flow in a fracture network is required to better predict the performance of the reservoir over time. This paper aims to determine a relationship for the pressure loss of flow through the intersection of two rock fractures connected end-to-end in a simplification attempt of a broader fracture network model. Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations were carried out for various aspect ratios, Reynolds numbers and the angle of orientation of the two fractures. Using data fitting methods, a general expression was found linking the pressure loss, Reynolds number, and angle of orientation, given a specific aspect ratio. The model was able to predict three fractures in series within 14% accuracy.
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Field of Research::09 - Engineering::0906 - Electrical and Electronic Engineering::090608 - Renewable Power and Energy Systems Engineering (excl. Solar Cells)