Maintenance operations in geothermal power plants

Abstract After a review of the differences in physical and chemical properties between the steam feeding the turbines in conventional thermal power plants and the endogenous fluid used by geothermal electric power plants, special corrosion problems are pointed out and discussed, together with the ensuing problems in selection of materials. The main points to be followed for a technically and economically sound operation are then discussed. They are: • - prearranged checking of the most vulnerable points of the machinery; • - internal organization of the power plants; • - planning for overhaul of the machines; • - minimal stocks of spare parts.