Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides an open cycle ocean thermal energy conversion plant for deriving power from the thermal differential between the surface waters and cold waters at a depth in tropical oceans. Warm surface water is sprayed into a lower chamber which is at pressure approximately equal to the vapor pressure of the warm water where part of the water evaporates. The vapor then passes through a venturi or venturis dividing the lower chamber from the upper chamber which is maintained at pressure approximately equal to the vapor pressure of the cold water. The pressure difference across the venturi(s) causes the vapor to emerge into the upper chamber at supersonic speed. Cold water injected into the supersonic jets gains momentum and energy from the jets which causes it to be forced upward to the top of the chamber where it is collected. In the process the vapor is cooled and condensed by cold water. The cold water is collected and is permitted to flow downward to drive hydraulic turbines thereby providing exploitable electrical energy.

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First Claim