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Experience Exchange
Vulcan Energy ’ s geothermal power plant has been producing carbon neutral electricity for ~ 6,500 households in the Southern Palatinate .
• Global potential : Geothermal energy has the potential to significantly contribute to global electricity demand . Research and statistics indicate that with ongoing technological advancements and cost reductions , geothermal energy could account for up to 15 % of the growth in global electricity demand by 2050 .
• Uninterrupted and reliable source : In contrast to solar and wind , geothermal energy offers continuous , 24 / 7 power , making it a stable and dependable energy source that can effectively complement other renewables .
Opportunities for heat exchanger manufacturers
• Specialized coatings : A key challenge in geothermal energy is managing the corrosive and scaling properties of geothermal brines . Developing innovative solutions ,
such as specialized corrosion-resistant coatings for equipment handling these highly corrosive fluids , is crucial . These coatings must endure the entire design life of the plant , which typically ranges from 15 to 25 years of continuous operation .
• Material innovations : Capital cost is a critical factor in project investments , driving efforts to optimize expenditure . There is a continuous focus on developing heat exchangers using cost-effective materials without sacrificing performance . For instance , replacing stainless steels or duplex stainless steels with low-alloy steels can significantly reduce costs while maintaining corrosion resistance through the application of advanced coatings . Chromium based alloys are significantly expensive as compared to the low alloy steels .
• Collaborative approach : International collaborations , such as the GEOHEX project , unite expertise from multiple countries to develop and test innovative heat exchanger technologies . These initiatives offer manufacturers the chance to lead in innovation and secure a competitive advantage . More information about the GEOHEX project can be found here .
Mentoring younger engineers seems to be a key part of your job , what are some of the challenges involved in this . Do you have tips for others in your position ? Mentoring younger engineers is indeed a crucial part of my role , but it comes with its fair share of challenges . A key difficulty lies in fostering a passion for core engineering disciplines , such as those in the process and manufacturing industries . Many young engineers also face a gap between academic knowledge and industry demands , which can be addressed through closer collaboration between universities and industry representatives , such as interactive sessions or internships . Another challenge is introducing them to practical knowledge , industry standards , and adapting to
LEOP is an operational training and product qualification testing facility designed to enable operational readiness for when the commercial facility is completed .
10 Heat Exchanger World February 2025 www . heat-exchanger-world . com