Design and selection of deep well pumps for geothermal wells

Abstract

Deep well pumps are necessary in order to get geothermal fluids to the surface for all purposes. Well testing is required for optimum pump design and selection. Well testing involves collection of data and analysis to determine the well loss coefficient. A systematic calculation procedure is presented. The engineering equations used in detailed pump calculation are identified and explained in a case study. The study shows how seasonal and gradual variations of the water table influence the design of the pumps and selection of the optimum discharge. The proper selection of deep well pumps is important for trouble free operation and optimum production from the well. The relative movement of impellers is a critical parameter that can be calculated; the results are used to make sure that the adjustment of impeller to the bowl housing is in the best position. The proper procedures for installing and pulling a deep well pump are given in detail.