- #1
saadsarfraz
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A common sense questions. Can anyone care to provide their insights?
Why multiple turbines drive a single generator
In summary, the conversation is discussing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of using a single turbine with multiple stages and generators versus using multiple turbines with separate shafts. The participants also mention the use of steam and gas turbines in power plants and the possibility of having a co-gen system with heat recovery. They also mention the KISS principle and the use of cross compound turbines in central power stations.
- #2
davenn
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saadsarfraz said:
really ??
haven't seen that before, do you have an example ?
- #3
Babadag
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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.
- #4
saadsarfraz
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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...
- #5
anorlunda
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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.
Sometimes we have cross compound turbines with multiple shafts and multiple generators but one steam path. That's rare today.
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- #6
Windadct
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What type of turbine? Steam, gas, ? Is this a Co-gen with Heat Recovery Steam Gen?
- #7
jim hardy
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Are you speaking of central power station equipment?saadsarfraz said:
Common sense ? Look up KISS principle. One turbogenerator with multistage turbine of course .
all on one shaft...
1. Why do wind farms use multiple turbines to drive a single generator?
The main reason for using multiple turbines to drive a single generator in a wind farm is to increase efficiency. By having multiple turbines, the wind energy can be harnessed more effectively, resulting in a higher electricity output. Additionally, this setup allows for better utilization of the land space and reduces the overall cost of the wind farm.
2. How does having multiple turbines affect the performance of the generator?
Having multiple turbines driving a single generator can improve the performance of the generator in several ways. Firstly, it allows for a more consistent and stable power output, as the wind speed and direction may vary at different locations within the wind farm. Secondly, it can help to reduce the wear and tear on the generator by distributing the workload among multiple turbines.
3. Are there any drawbacks to using multiple turbines to drive a single generator?
While there are many benefits to using multiple turbines, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One potential issue is that the turbines must be spaced far enough apart to avoid interfering with each other's wind flow. This can limit the number of turbines that can be installed in a given area. Additionally, having multiple turbines means there are more components that could potentially fail, increasing maintenance and repair costs.
4. How are the turbines connected to the generator in this setup?
In most cases, the turbines are connected to the generator through a series of gears and shafts. The rotation of the turbines is converted into a higher speed by the gears, which is then used to spin the generator at the necessary speed to produce electricity. Alternatively, some wind farms may use a direct drive system, where the turbines are directly connected to the generator without the need for gears.
5. Can multiple types of turbines be used to drive a single generator?
Yes, it is possible to use multiple types of turbines to drive a single generator. In fact, many wind farms use a combination of different turbine types, such as horizontal axis and vertical axis turbines, to optimize energy production in different wind conditions. However, it is important to ensure that the turbines are compatible and can work together efficiently to drive the generator.
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