nESP-AG
Innovative ESP-Motor Drive System for Geothermal Power Plants
Subproject – Design, Identification und Control
A novel, highly efficient, robust, and reliable ESP drive system will be developed for deep well pumps in geothermal energy systems. This will make an essential contribution, especially to the implementation of the energy transition and the base-load-capable electrical energy supply in Germany.
In this project, a novel, highly efficient, robust, and reliable ESP (Electric Submersible Pump) drive system will be developed for deep well pumps in geothermal energy systems. This will make an essential contribution, especially to the implementation of the energy transition (Wärmewende) and the base-load-capable electrical energy supply in Germany.
The aim is to address the five main challenges (Cx) faced by system operators regarding the overall ESP system: (C1) low robustness and reliability, (C2) low efficiency, (C3) lack of flexibility, (C4) dependence on foreign component manufacturers (with quasi-monopoly positions), and (C5) absence of a holistic solution and a single point of contact for the ESP system.
To achieve this, the following goals (Gx) should be accomplished: (G1) Maximizing robustness and reliability against high temperatures (up to 180°C in the Upper Rhine Graben) and scalings (Bavarian Molasse) to extend the operational lifetime (≥5 years), (G2) Maximizing system efficiency (expected improvement of at least 10%), (G3) Maximizing pumping rate flexibility (summer and winter operation), and (G4) Developing a holistic solution for the ESP system from German sources.
In order to achieve goals (G1) – (G4) of the project, four innovations (Ix) will be implemented throughout the project: (I1) Development of a special synchronous motor (SSM), (I2) Development of a specially adapted frequency converter control with sensorless current regulation and optimal torque pre-control, (I3) Automated validation of the SSM drive using a realistic Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test bench, and (I4) Development of a digital twin for the new ESP system with SSM drive. The goal is to ideally raise the proposed technology from the current Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 to TRL 6-7.
Project Staff:
- Mahmoud Abdelmajeed
General Project Information:
- Project duration: 01.01.2024 - 31.12.2026
Funded by: Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection
Project executing agency: Project Management Jülich, PtJ
Project partner:
- Oil Dynamics GmbH
