Evaluation and optimization of the Cerro Prieto geothermal field steam transportation network efficiency estimation of heat losses from pipe fittings

Part of a much larger project aimed at improving the performance of the Cerro Prieto Geothermal Field (CPGF) steam gathering network by reducing heat losses and improving the efficiency of energy utilization. During evaluation the efficiency of steam transport in the network, pipe fittings were identified to represent an important source of heat loss since, unlike the pipes, they are not thermally insulated. In this work, a methodology for quantifying heat loss in the various fitting types installed in the CPGF steam gathering network is described. This methodology is based on the geometry of the different fittings, and the basic equations for convective heat transfer and fin efficiency calculations.