Why Are Impulse Stages Used Before Reaction Stages in Steam Turbines?

In summary, the reason for having an impulse stage first in modern steam turbines is because when steam is first admitted into the turbine casing, it is traveling at a low velocity. The impulse stages are placed first to increase the steam's velocity, which then allows for the use of reaction stages to take advantage of the now faster flowing steam. This is because nozzle drop steam pressure and increase its velocity up to a supersonic level.
  • #1
engnr_arsalan
46
0
I have seen modern steam turbines with velocity compounding, they start with impulse stage then reaction stages,can anyone tell me, why There is a impulse stage first,why not a reaction stage first?
 
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  • #2
When steam is first admitted into the turbine casing, it is traveling at relatively low velocity. The impulse stages are placed first on the turbine rotor so that the steam expanding thru them will increase in velocity, after which reaction stages can be used to take advantage of the now faster flowing steam.
 
  • #3
SteamKing said:
When steam is first admitted into the turbine casing, it is traveling at relatively low velocity. The impulse stages are placed first on the turbine rotor so that the steam expanding thru them will increase in velocity, after which reaction stages can be used to take advantage of the now faster flowing steam.

Doesn't nozzle drop steam pressure and increase its velocity upto super sonic level?
 

Related to Why Are Impulse Stages Used Before Reaction Stages in Steam Turbines?

1. What is an impulse reaction turbine?

An impulse reaction turbine is a type of steam turbine that converts the energy of a high-pressure, high-velocity steam into rotational motion by expanding the steam through a series of stationary and moving blades. It is commonly used in power plants to generate electricity.

2. How does an impulse reaction turbine work?

An impulse reaction turbine works by directing high-pressure, high-velocity steam onto a series of stationary blades called nozzles. This steam expands and accelerates as it passes through the nozzles, creating a high-speed jet of steam. The jet then enters a series of moving blades called buckets, which are attached to a rotating shaft. The steam's high velocity causes the buckets to spin, converting the steam's kinetic energy into rotational motion.

3. What are the advantages of using an impulse reaction turbine?

Some advantages of using an impulse reaction turbine include high efficiency, low maintenance requirements, and the ability to generate large amounts of power. Additionally, these turbines can handle a wide range of steam conditions and can be easily controlled to meet varying power demands.

4. What are the limitations of an impulse reaction turbine?

One limitation of an impulse reaction turbine is that it is less efficient at low steam pressures and velocities compared to other types of turbines. It also requires a large amount of space due to its complex design, making it less suitable for smaller power plants. Additionally, the high speeds and temperatures involved in operating an impulse reaction turbine can lead to wear and tear on the blades, requiring frequent maintenance and replacement.

5. How is an impulse reaction turbine different from other types of turbines?

An impulse reaction turbine differs from other types of turbines in its design and operation. Unlike a reaction turbine, which expands steam through a series of moving blades, an impulse reaction turbine utilizes both stationary and moving blades to efficiently convert the steam's energy into motion. Additionally, an impulse reaction turbine is better suited for high-pressure, high-velocity steam, while other types of turbines may be more efficient at lower steam conditions.

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