Thermo-hydrodynamic model of the Koshelev geothermal system, Kamchatka, Russia

Abstract

The results of numerical thermo-hydrodynamic simulation of Koshelev geothermal system are presented. The question of the possibility of the existence of a shallow geothermal reservoir at the Lower-Koshelev thermal field is briefly investigated. The simulation results refute the assumption of the existence of a near-surface geothermal reservoir. It is more likely that in this part of the geothermal system there is a region of permeable rock that is relatively narrow in cross section and which performs the function of a conduit. The size and shape of the apical part of the steam zone under the Lower-Koshelev thermal field are controlled by the diameter of the conduit. Results of simulations with a conduit diameter of 1200 and 500 m are presented. The latter is more likely, since it best matches the field data.