Foras Geothermal Pumps for Enel AMIS System – High-Temperature Centrifugal Pump Solutions for Renewable Energy and Emissions Control
- Lyn Panova
- Jun 16
- 2 min read
Location: Italy
Year: 2018
Application: Geothermal Enel Power Station
Foras is a trusted supplier of advanced geothermal pump systems for the renewable energy sector. As a key technology partner of Enel Green Power, Foras contributes to one of Europe’s largest geothermal energy districts, located in Tuscany, Italy. Our high-efficiency geothermal pumps are used in multiple stages of the steam power generation process, ensuring operational reliability and environmental compliance.
The Challenge: Emission Control in Geothermal Power Plants
In geothermal electricity production, raw ground steam contains pollutants such as mercury and hydrogen sulphide. Before the steam reaches the turbines, it must be purified to reduce harmful emissions. Enel Green Power developed the patented AMIS (Abatement of Mercury and Hydrogen Sulphide) process to ensure ultra-low environmental impact. This advanced system demands durable, chemical-resistant, high-temperature pump solutions capable of handling caustic fluids and superheated water under extreme conditions.
Our Solution: Foras High-Performance Pumps for AMIS Steam Purification
To support the AMIS process, Foras engineered a specialized range of horizontal end-suction centrifugal pumps that deliver both performance and corrosion resistance in geothermal and chemical handling environments.
Primary AMIS Pump: 4MAX 150-400A
This chemical-resistant industrial pump plays a critical role in delivering a high-temperature, high-density mixture of water and sodium hydroxide to pressurized filter tanks:
Flow rate: 450 m³/h
Head: 45 meters
Pump speed: 1450 rpm
Motor: 90 kW
Construction material: AISI 316 stainless steel for resistance to corrosive and abrasive fluids
Mechanical seal: Designed for harsh chemical environments and high solid content, with AISI 316 shaft sleeve for corrosion protection
Seal chamber design: Minimizes leakage and reduces maintenance costs
Bearings: Oil-lubricated radial ball bearings with integrated temperature sensor and oil level monitor for preventive maintenance
Secondary High-Temperature Pump: MAX 40-250B
Used for boosting superheated geothermal water at 180°C into the AMIS filtration system:
Flow rate: 30 m³/h
Head: 80 meters
Pump speed: 2950 rpm
Motor: 18.5 kW (oversized for dense fluids)
System pressure: 13 bar at inlet, 21 bar at discharge
Cooling system: Custom-designed elongated seal chamber with external seal cooling and integrated fan for high-temperature operation
These high-pressure geothermal pumps are engineered to withstand extreme thermal and chemical stresses, enabling the AMIS system to operate safely and efficiently under continuous high-load conditions.
Results: Reliable Emission Reduction and Sustainable Energy Production
Thanks to Foras’s robust and efficient pumping technology, Enel’s AMIS systems achieve up to 95% reduction in mercury and hydrogen sulphide emissions, drastically minimizing air pollution from geothermal operations. The Foras pump systems ensure long-term durability, minimal maintenance, and optimal energy use—making them ideal for sustainable geothermal energy projects.
Foras is a leading manufacturer of high-performance industrial pumps for geothermal, chemical, and renewable energy applications. Our pump systems are designed to meet the toughest environmental and operational challenges.
