Sample interview questions: Describe the behavior of steam turbines and their relation to thermodynamics.
Sample answer:
Behavior of Steam Turbines
Steam turbines convert the thermal energy of high-pressure steam into mechanical energy. They operate on the principle of energy conservation, where the enthalpy drop of the steam as it flows through the turbine is converted into kinetic energy, which is then extracted by the turbine blades to rotate the rotor.
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Four Main Stages: Steam turbines typically consist of four main stages:
- Inlet stage: High-pressure steam enters the turbine.
- Expansion stages: Steam expands through multiple rows of blades, creating kinetic energy.
- Reaction stages: Steam exerts a reaction force on the blades, further increasing kinetic energy.
- Outlet stage: Low-pressure steam exits the turbine.
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Efficiency: Steam turbines operate on the Rankine cycle, which governs the thermodynamic efficiency of heat engines. The efficiency is determined by the temperature difference between the steam inlet and outlet and the efficiency of the associated condenser.
Relation to Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics plays a crucial role in understa… Read full answer