Set-up of a mid-field model to investigate the recirculation of effluents in the Mirfa power and desalination plant Original Research Article

The Mirfa power and desalination plant was built in the Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates, in the early 1990s. Plant capacity is 16.5 MGD. It was decided to increase the plantʹs capacity to satisfy rapid urban and industrial development in the Emirate. A comprehensive study was carried out to investigate the recirculation of salinity and temperature from the plant outfall to the intake, which determines the feasibility of extending the plantʹs capacity. The study was carried out by a two-dimensional numerical flow model, which was calibrated and verified with field data obtained from the plantʹs vicinity. The set-up of the model and the model calibration are presented. The effect of the plantʹs extension on recirculation of effluents is discussed.