Efficiency Analysis of the Main Cooling Water Pump at PT. X Geothermal Power Plant

Abstract

The demand for electricity in Indonesia continues to increase in line with population growth, making the utilization of renewable energy an essential solution for meeting national energy needs. Geothermal Power Plants (GPPs) represent one of the most important renewable energy sources contributing to sustainable electricity generation. The cooling system in a geothermal power plant relies heavily on the performance of the Main Cooling Water Pump (MCWP), which is responsible for circulating condensate water from the condenser to the cooling tower. This study aims to evaluate the actual efficiency of the Main Cooling Water Pump at Geothermal Power Plant and to compare its current performance with the commissioning data. The research methodology consisted of field observations, literature review, operational data collection, and performance calculations, including flow rate, flow velocity, Water Horse Power (WHP), and pump efficiency. The results indicate that the average pump efficiency during commissioning was 75.5%. Under current operating conditions, the average efficiency of Pump 1 was 75.1%, while Pump 2 achieved an average efficiency of 80.3%. The observed differences between the commissioning and actual operating efficiencies were influenced by the discharge valve opening, pump power consumption, operational vibration, deviations from the original design operating conditions, and modifications made to the Main Cooling Water Pump system after the commissioning stage. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the actual operating performance of the MCWP and may serve as a reference for improving cooling system efficiency and supporting sustainable energy operation at the Kamojang Geothermal Power Plant.