Why multiple turbines drive a single generator

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Multiple turbines can drive a single generator for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, as having a single generator reduces internal losses from resistance and friction. Common configurations include steam turbines with high, intermediate, and low-pressure stages acting on the same shaft, or gas turbines in series within combined cycle power plants. While cross compound turbines with multiple shafts and generators exist, they are less common today. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding turbine types and configurations in power generation systems. Overall, utilizing multiple turbines on one shaft is a practical approach in energy production.
saadsarfraz
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A common sense questions. Can anyone care to provide their insights?
 
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saadsarfraz said:
A common sense question.

really ??
haven't seen that before, do you have an example ?
 
In my opinion, it is an usual system: what we call “ a steam turbine” are 3 turbines acting on the same shaft: high pressure, intermediate and low pressure. A gas turbine could be two in series-in combined cycle power plant.
 
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Can it be because having a single generator is less costly and would be more efficient as multiple generators would lead to some type of internal losses due to resistance or friction...
 
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Those multiple turbines are probably connected to the same shaft. Even though they have several sections, we call them collectively "a turbine"

Sometimes we have cross compound turbines with multiple shafts and multiple generators but one steam path. That's rare today.
 
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What type of turbine? Steam, gas, ? Is this a Co-gen with Heat Recovery Steam Gen?
 
saadsarfraz said:
A common sense questions.
Are you speaking of central power station equipment?
Common sense ? Look up KISS principle. One turbogenerator with multistage turbine of course .

turbogenerator.jpg


all on one shaft...
 
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