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BOHOL ISLAND STATE UNIVERSITY

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COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, ARCHITECTURE & INDUSTRIAL DESIGN

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PME 424- ME Laboratory 3

Laboratory 1

Performance and Energy Analysis of PA Hilton Rankine Cycle Steam

Turbine Efficiency at Different Inlet and Exhaust Pressures

Submitted by:

Rubie B. Gucor

Submitted to:

Engr. Juanito M. Origines Jr.

 Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

Rationale

In this laboratory report, the students explore the performance and energy analysis of the
PA Hilton Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine, focusing on varying Inlet and Exhaust Pressures.
Turbines, crucial for torque and shaft power development, operate on vapor or gas with a
substantial pressure disparity between inlet and exhaust. The Hilton S220 turbine, a "simple,
single stage, axial flow, impulse turbine," follows the De Laval design, lacking complexities like
velocity compounding. Noteworthy is its axial flow nature, where fluid enters and exits the rotor at
the same radius without significant radial components.

The theoretical aspects involving nozzle discharge velocity, vector diagrams, and
calculations for theoretical power and efficiency are standard in thermodynamic textbooks. As
students engage with these theoretical principles, they gain a deeper understanding of the
intricacies involved in turbine performance. The practical application of these concepts using the
S220, a self-contained Rankine steam turbine cycle, allows students to bridge theoretical
knowledge with real-world scenarios, fostering a more profound comprehension of the subject
matter.

The integration of components like an electrically heated boiler, steam turbine, water-
cooled condenser, reservoir, feed pump, and water make-up tank in the S220 system provides
students with a holistic view of a Rankine steam turbine cycle in action. As a result, students not
only acquire theoretical knowledge but also gain practical insights into the complexities of
operating and optimizing such systems.

Moreover, the emphasis on understanding the manual before installation and usage not
only ensures accurate analysis and optimal performance but also cultivates a sense of
responsibility and safety awareness among students. This hands-on experience contributes to
their overall learning, preparing them for future endeavors in the field of turbine systems and
thermodynamics.

Governing Principles

The performance of a steam turbine is governed by several fundamental principles

from thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Here are some key concepts involved:

• Energy Conservation (First Law of Thermodynamics): The first law states that energy cannot
be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted from one form to another. In the context of
the laboratory experiment, it is applied to the analysis of energy transformations within the PA
Hilton Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine, quantifying heat transfer, work done, and changes in
internal energy.

• Entropy Increase (Second Law of Thermodynamics): The second law describes the natural
tendency of systems to move towards higher entropy or increased disorder. In the experiment,
analyzing entropy changes provides insights into the efficiency of the Rankine Cycle and helps
evaluate the irreversibilities within the turbine system.
• Bernoulli's Principle: Bernoulli's principle relates the pressure, velocity, and gravitational
potential energy of a fluid in steady flow. In the context of the experiment, it contributes to the
understanding of fluid dynamics within the turbine, particularly the axial flow nature and the
pressure differences crucial for momentum changes.

• Steam Properties: Steam properties include characteristics such as specific enthalpy, specific
volume, temperature, and pressure specific to the steam used in the Rankine Cycle. These
properties are essential for analyzing the thermodynamic state of the working fluid at different
stages of the turbine cycle.

• Torque: Torque is the rotational force applied to the turbine rotor, calculated as the product of
force and radius. In the laboratory experiment, torque is a key parameter in assessing the
mechanical performance of the turbine and its ability to develop shaft power. It is given by the
equation,

𝑻 = 𝑭𝑩 𝒓
Where:
𝑭𝑩 − 𝐵𝑟𝑎𝑘𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑, 𝑁
𝒓 − 𝐵𝑙𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑝𝑖𝑡𝑐ℎ 𝑐𝑖𝑟𝑐𝑙𝑒 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠, 𝑚

In S220 Manual: Turbine Rotor Data,

𝐵𝑙𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑝𝑖𝑡𝑐ℎ 𝑐𝑖𝑟𝑐𝑙𝑒 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠 = 𝟐𝟐. 𝟓𝒎𝒎

• Brake Power (Measured Power Output): Brake power represents the useful power output of
the turbine, measured after losses. In the experiment, it indicates the actual power delivered by
the turbine's shaft and is crucial for evaluating the overall efficiency of the system. It is given as,

𝟐𝝅𝑻𝑵
𝑩𝑷 =
𝟔𝟎
Where:
𝑩𝑷 − 𝐵𝑟𝑎𝑘𝑒 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟, 𝑊𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑠
𝑻 − 𝑇𝑜𝑟𝑞𝑢𝑒, 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
𝑵 − 𝑅𝑒𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑡𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑏𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑏𝑙𝑎𝑑𝑒, 𝑟𝑝𝑚

• Steam Consumption (Steam Mass Flow Rate): Steam consumption refers to the mass flow rate
of steam entering the turbine. It is a fundamental parameter in analyzing the efficiency and
performance of the Rankine Cycle, quantifying the amount of steam required to produce a certain
amount of work. Hence,

𝑽𝟐 − 𝑽𝟏 −𝟔
(
𝒎̇𝒔 =
𝜟𝑽̇
= 𝒕 )(𝟏𝟎 )
𝒗 𝒗
Where:
𝑘𝑔
𝒎̇𝒔 − 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑓𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒,
𝑠
𝑽𝟐 − 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 (𝑃𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 2), 𝑚𝐿
𝑽𝟏 − 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 (𝑃𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 1), 𝑚𝐿
 𝒕 − 𝐸𝑙𝑎𝑝𝑠𝑒 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 1 − 2, 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑠
𝑚3
𝒗 − 𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 𝑎𝑡 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑒𝑟 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒,
𝑘𝑔

• Isentropic Efficiency: Isentropic efficiency compares the actual turbine performance to the ideal,
isentropic conditions. It is a measure of how well the turbine approaches the theoretical efficiency
without irreversibilities. In the experiment, it helps assess the effectiveness of the turbine in
converting heat into work. It is given as,

𝑾𝑻,𝒂𝒄𝒕 (𝒉𝒊𝒏 − 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕,𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍)

𝜼𝑻𝒔 = =
𝑾𝑻,𝒔 (𝒉𝒊𝒏 − 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕,𝒔)
Where:
𝒉𝒊𝒏 − 𝑒𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑝𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑖𝑛𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑚
𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕,𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍 − 𝑒𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑝𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑒𝑥ℎ𝑎𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑚 (𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 )
𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕,𝒔 − 𝑒𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑝𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑒𝑥ℎ𝑎𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑚 (𝑖𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑝𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑒𝑠𝑠)

• Thermal Efficiency: Thermal efficiency represents the ratio of net work output to the heat input
in the Rankine Cycle. It quantifies the efficiency of the steam turbine in converting heat energy
into useful work. In the laboratory experiment, it is a crucial metric for evaluating the overall
performance of the turbine system. This is often expressed as,

𝑾 (𝒉𝒊𝒏 − 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕,𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍)
𝒆𝒕𝒉 = =
𝑬𝒄 (𝒉𝒊𝒏 − 𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆𝒓)
Where:
𝒉𝒊𝒏 − 𝑒𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑝𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑖𝑛𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑚
𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕,𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍 − 𝑒𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑝𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑒𝑥ℎ𝑎𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑚 (𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 )
𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆𝒓 − 𝑒𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑝𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑛

Thus, understanding and applying these governing equations are essential for a
comprehensive analysis of the PA Hilton Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine in the laboratory setting.

Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine

The Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine serves as the fundamental principle for the majority of
contemporary steam turbine power plants. It outlines the theoretical process wherein heat
sourced from a designated origin undergoes conversion into practical mechanical work,
subsequently utilized for electricity generation. The breakdown of the Rankine cycle within a
steam turbine involves several components, as illustrated in Figure 1 displaying the T-s diagram
of the Ideal Rankine Cycle.

Key Components:

• Boiler: Water, initially in a liquid state (state 2), is pumped into

the boiler. Through exposure to the heat source, it undergoes
heating, transforming into high-pressure steam (state 3). This
steam, rich in thermal energy, plays a crucial role in the cycle.

Figure 1. Ideal Rankine Cycle

• Turbine: The high-pressure steam, now in state 3, expands through the turbine (state 3 to 4).
This expansion propels the turbine blades, inducing rotation. Consequently, the thermal energy
of the steam is converted into mechanical shaft work.
• Condenser: The low-pressure steam exiting the turbine (state 4) is directed through a condenser.
In this phase, it undergoes cooling, facilitated by a cooling medium (such as air or water), leading
to condensation back into a liquid state (state 1).
• Pump: The condensed water, existing as a low-pressure liquid (state 1), is subjected to a pump
that elevates its pressure (state 2). This pressurized liquid is then fed back into the boiler,
completing the cyclic process.

Objectives

This laboratory report seeks to assess the operational characteristics of the Rankine Cycle
Steam Turbine (S220) across different inlet and exhaust pressure scenarios. The experiment will
employ the apparatus to gauge:

1. Torque, providing insights into the rotational force applied to the turbine;

2. Brake power, offering a measure of the turbine's actual power output; and

3. Steam consumption, determining the mass flow rate of steam utilized.

These measurements will then serve as the basis for calculating the:

• Isentropic efficiency, offering a comparison between actual turbine performance and ideal
isentropic conditions; and
• Thermal efficiency, quantifying the system's effectiveness in converting heat to useful work.

The findings will be communicated through visual representations, employing graphical

illustrations to elucidate the intricate interplay between pressure variations and the turbine's
overall performance. This approach aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how
different pressure conditions influence the key parameters, contributing to a nuanced analysis of
the Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine in the laboratory setting.
 Chapter 2
METHODOLOGY
Introduction
This section elucidates the experimental approach employed to scrutinize the functionality
of the laboratory Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine (S220) under fluctuating inlet and exhaust
pressure conditions. The study centers on gauging pivotal parameters to assess the turbine's
efficiency and operational attributes. These parameters encompass:

• Measurement of Steam Consumption

• Evaluation of Brake Power
• Analysis of Torque

These measurements will facilitate the computation of both isentropic and thermal efficiency,
focusing on two distinct scenarios:

a) Constant Inlet Pressure, Variable Exhaust Pressure: Investigating the turbine's

efficiency when the inlet pressure remains constant but the exhaust pressure varies.

b) Constant Exhaust Pressure, Variable Inlet Pressure: Analyzing the turbine's

performance with a consistent exhaust pressure while altering the inlet pressure.

Experimental Setup and Instruments

The experimental setup employs a streamlined configuration of the Rankine Cycle S220
steam turbine in the laboratory, illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, accompanied by the Index outlining
the entire setup. Components featured in this arrangement encompass the boiler, feed pump,
condenser, and the turbine itself.

This comprehensive setup of the 5220 Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine serves as the
foundation for a meticulous exploration of performance dynamics under diverse pressure
conditions, contributing valuable insights to the understanding of turbine efficiency.

Figure 2. Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine Set-up with Schematic Diagram

 Figure 3. Boiler Set-up

Part Index (Source: P.A. Hilton S220 Manual)

Experiment Procedures
This section provides a detailed procedure of the experiment in determination of Torque,
Power, and steam consumption when operating:

a. At constant inlet pressure but with varying exhaust pressure;

b. At constant exhaust pressure but with varying inlet pressure.

Procedure A

1. Initiation: Switch on the designated switches (Part 25) and allow the boiler to reach a
stable temperature (17) within the recommended range of 150-160°C as specified in the
S220 Manual.

2. Throttle Valve Adjustment: Gradually open the throttle valve until the steam pressure
gauge (Part 2) reaches the predetermined constant inlet pressure.

3. Condenser Pressure Adjustment: Precisely regulate the turbine condenser pressure by

primarily adjusting the Ejector control valve (Part 37) and slightly manipulating the
Flowmeter and Control Valve (Part 18) until the desired condenser pressure is achieved.
3.a. Safety Measures: Activate the Brake cooling water control (Part 6) with care to
initiate brake cooling water flow, avoiding splashing and potential damage to the brake
belt and turbine.

4. Load Adjustment: Set the load adjuster (Part 13) in a manner that ensures the turbine
tachometer reading (Part 3) and Brake load indicator (Part 5) stabilize at an "almost"
steady state with minimal fluctuations.

5. Data Collection: Record readings for the current exhaust pressure in Parts 3 and 5, along
with temperature indications from the Temperature indicator (Part 4) at specific points in
the cycle. Organize the gathered data in Table 1.

6. Iteration: Repeat steps 3 to 5 for additional pressure conditions in the condenser.

Procedure B (Assuming Non-Continuous Operation)

1. Initiation: Activate the designated switches (Part 25) and allow the boiler to achieve a
consistent temperature (𝒕𝟕) within the recommended 150-160°C range mentioned in the
S220 Manual.

2. Throttle Valve Adjustment: Gradually open the throttle valve until the steam pressure
gauge (Part 2) reaches the desired inlet pressure.

3. Condenser Pressure Adjustment: Carefully regulate the turbine condenser pressure

using the Ejector control valve (Part 37) and make minor adjustments to the Flowmeter
and Control Valve (Part 18) to maintain a constant condenser pressure. 3.a. Safety
Measures: Activate the Brake cooling water control (Part 6) cautiously to initiate brake
cooling water flow, preventing splashing and potential damage to the brake belt and
turbine.

4. Load Adjustment: Set the load adjuster (Part 13) to ensure stability in both turbine
tachometer reading (Part 3) and Brake load indicator (Part 5) with minimal variations.

5. Data Collection: Document readings for the current exhaust pressure in Parts 3 and 5,
along with temperature indications from the Temperature indicator (Part 4) at specific
points in the cycle. Systematically organize the collected data in Table 1.

6. Iteration: Repeat steps 2, 4, and 5 for additional turbine inlet pressure conditions.
 INLET PRESSURE 180 280
(KPag)
Condenser Pressure -15 -10 -15 -10
(KPag)
Tachometer (rpm)
Brake Load (N)
Temp 1 Turbine Inlet (℃)
Temp 2 (℃)
Temp 3
Temp 4
Temp 5
Temp 6
Temp 7
Temp 8
Table 1. Data at different pressure conditions.

Condensate Measurement Procedure (During Operation):

1. Valve Closure: Gently shut the valve (Part 22) by turning the handle "Horizontally
BACKWARD" (towards the panel). This positioning facilitates the passage of air through the feed
water reservoir while retaining the condensate within the condenser.

2. Initial Condensate Readings: Utilize a stopwatch to record the initial measurements of the
condensate, relying on the provided "calibrated volume measurement" for accuracy.

3. Final Condensate Readings and Time Measurement: Record the concluding readings of the
condensate, along with the time taken to achieve the specified level "reading." Systematically
organize this data in Table 2.

4. Valve Reopening: Following the condensate measurement, cautiously open the valve (Part
22) by turning the handle "Horizontally FORWARD" (away from the panel). This action facilitates
the exit of condensate and air from the bottom of the condenser.

5. Repetition of Procedures: Replicate the outlined procedures for diverse pressure conditions,
ensuring a comprehensive assessment of condensate measurements.

*Note: Properties of steam referenced in this procedure are derived from "Steam Tables:
Thermodynamic Properties of Water Including Vapor, Liquid, and Solid Phases."

Turbine Exhaust
Pressure (kPag) −𝟏𝟎 −𝟏𝟓
Turbine Inlet 180 280 180 280
Pressure (kPag)
Brake Load (N)
Brake Torque (N-m)
Turbine Rotational
Speed (rpm)
Shaft Power (Watts)
Specific Steam
Consumption
(kg/kWh)

Time to condensate
to 100mL (s)
Table 2. Calculated data for Torque, Power and Specific Consumption

Formulas and equation/s (equation 1, equation 2, equation 3) are used in calculating

the unknown parameters in Table 2.
Absolute Pressure: This formula represents the conversion of gauge pressure to absolute
pressure:

𝑷𝒂𝒃𝒔 = 𝑷𝒈𝒂𝒖𝒈𝒆 + 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒎

Where:

𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒎 - 𝑎𝑡𝑚𝑜𝑠𝑝ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 101.325 𝑘𝑃𝑎

𝑷𝒈𝒂𝒖𝒈𝒆 − 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑔𝑎𝑢𝑔𝑒, 𝑘𝑃𝑎𝑔

Rankine Cycle Calculations

In the computations for the Rankine Cycle, the steam properties at specific points are
determined by referencing the Pressure and Temperature conditions outlined in Table 3. Figure
4 illustrates the T-s diagram for the Rankine Steam Cycle Engine, providing a visual guide
essential for the ensuing calculations. This diagram aids in understanding the thermodynamic
state of steam at different stages within the Rankine Cycle, facilitating accurate and
comprehensive calculations based on the specified conditions.

Figure 4. Cycle T-s Diagram

Turbine Inlet 180 280

Pressure (kPag)
Turbine Exhaust −𝟏𝟓 −𝟏𝟎 −𝟏𝟓 −𝟏𝟎
Pressure (kPag)
Turbine Inlet
Temperature (℃)
Shaft Power
(Watts)
Isentropic
Efficiency (%)
Table 3. Calculated Data for Isentropic Efficiency.
Turbine Isentropic Efficiency
Using the formula stated in (equation 5) for the Turbine Isentropic Efficiency:

Thermal Efficiency
Using the formula stated in (equation 5) for the cycle’s Thermal Efficiency:
Properties of Steam:

.
Data (A) (B) (C) (D)
Turbine Inlet 180 280
Pressure (kPag)
Turbine Exhaust
Pressure (kPag)
Turbine Inlet
Temperature (℃)
Nominal Heat
Input (𝑄𝐴 )
Shaft Power
(Watts)
Thermal
Efficiency (%)
Table 4. Calculated Data for Thermal Efficiency.

CHAPTER 3
Results and Discussion

This segment unveils the outcomes derived from the meticulous calculations and analysis
conducted during the operational phases of the laboratory Rankine Cycle Steam Turbine (S220).
The investigation encompassed diverse scenarios involving fluctuating inlet and exhaust pressure
conditions, yielding a comprehensive set of data. Parameters such as torque, brake power, and
steam consumption were methodically measured, presented, and subjected to detailed scrutiny.

With a foundation in these measured variables, the subsequent step involved the
calculation and discourse on both the isentropic and thermal efficiencies of the turbine. These
efficiency metrics serve as pivotal indicators, shedding light on the turbine's performance under
distinct pressure conditions. The ensuing discussion delves into the nuanced intricacies revealed
by the experimental findings, offering valuable insights into the dynamic behavior of the Rankine
Cycle Steam Turbine in the laboratory setting.

INLET PRESSURE 180 280

(KPag)
Condenser Pressure -15 -10 -15 -10
(KPag)
Tachometer (rpm) 9745 9539 15574 16227
Brake Load (N) 0.05 0.06 0.35 0.29
Temp 1 Turbine Inlet (℃) 131.1 131.8 144.2 141.9
Temp 2 (℃) 44.0 44.3 47.2 45.4
Temp 3 39.2 40 48.4 50.8
Temp 4 46.4 46.1 55.2 66.9
Temp 5 49.9 49.6 72.2 64.2
Temp 6 32.9 33.4 36.4 35.8
Temp 7 162.3 161.2 161.1 162.1
Temp 8 163.8 162.5 162.1 164.5
Table 1. Data at different pressure conditions.
 Turbine Exhaust
Pressure (kPag) −𝟏𝟎 −𝟏𝟓
Turbine Inlet 180 280 180 280
Pressure (kPag)
Brake Load (N) 0.06 0.29 0.05 0.35
Brake Torque (N-m) 0.00138 0.00667 0.00115 0.00805
Turbine Rotational 9539 16227 9745 15574
Speed (rpm)
Shaft Power (Watts) 1.37 11.33 1.17 13.12
Specific Steam
Consumption 5104.37 617.21 5976.92 533
(kg/kWh)

Time to condensate 51.48

to 100mL (s)
Table 2. Calculated data for Torque, Power and Specific Consumption

Table 3. Calculated Data for Isentropic Efficiency.

Table 4. Calculated Data for Thermal Efficiency.
 CHAPTER 4
Analysis and Conclusion

This segment delves into the comprehensive dataset amassed through our experimental
scrutiny, aiming to unravel the intricate interplay among pivotal parameters like turbine inlet
pressure, condenser pressure, isentropic turbine efficiency, and thermal efficiency. The
exploration is designed to offer profound insights into how fluctuations in these variables impact
the turbine's dynamics and the overall efficiency of the power generation process.

Brake Power-Exhaust Pressure at Constant Inlet Pressure Conditions

13.5 1.4
13 1.35
Brake Power, Watts

Brake Power, Watts

12.5 1.3
12 1.25
11.5 1.2
11 1.15
10.5 1.1
10 1.05
-15 -10
280 kPag 13.12 11.33
180 kPag 1.17 1.37
Condenser Pressure. kPag

280 kPag 180 kPag

Figure 5. Brake Power-Condenser Pressure Relation

Based on the data provided, there is a clear relationship between condenser

pressure and brake power in the steam turbine system. Brake power, which represents
the useful power output of the turbine, varies significantly with changes in condenser
pressure.

Firstly, we observe that as the condenser pressure decreases, there is a noticeable

increase in brake power across all turbine inlet pressure conditions. For instance, when
the turbine inlet pressure is at 180 kPag, the brake power rises from 1.37 Watts to 1.17
Watts as the condenser pressure decreases from 180 kPag to 280 kPag. Similarly, at an
inlet pressure of 280 kPag, the brake power increases from 11.33 Watts to 13.12 Watts
as the condenser pressure decreases from 180 kPag to 280 kPag.

This relationship can be attributed to the principle of steam expansion within the
turbine. Lower condenser pressures allow for greater expansion of steam as it passes
through the turbine, leading to higher energy extraction and consequently increased
brake power output.

Conversely, if we were to maintain a constant condenser pressure while increasing

the turbine inlet pressure, we would expect to see a similar rise in brake power. This is
consistent with the data, where an increase in inlet pressure from 180 kPag to 280 kPag
results in an increase in brake power across both condenser pressure conditions.

Overall, the data underscores the significant impact of condenser pressure on the
performance of the steam turbine system, with lower condenser pressures generally
leading to higher brake power output due to increased steam expansion within the turbine.
This understanding is crucial for optimizing turbine operation and maximizing power
generation efficiency in practical applications.

Steam Consumption-Speed at Variable Exhaust Pressure (Constant

Inlet Pressure)
7,000.00000 18000
16000
6,000.00000
14000
Steam Consumption

5,000.00000
Roational SPeed
12000
4,000.00000 10000

3,000.00000 8000
6000
2,000.00000
4000
1,000.00000
2000
0.00000 0
-15 -10
Condenser Pressure, kPag

Figure 6. Steam Consumption-Speed Relations

Based on the provided data, there appears to be a notable relationship between

turbine rotational speed and specific steam consumption. As turbine rotational speed
increases, there is a trend towards decreased specific steam consumption, indicating
improved efficiency in steam utilization.

When analyzing the data, it's evident that at lower turbine inlet pressures (180
kPag), the turbine rotational speeds are also lower compared to the higher inlet pressures
(280 kPag). For instance, at 180 kPag inlet pressure, the turbine rotational speed ranges
from 9539 to 9745 rpm, whereas at 280 kPag inlet pressure, the speeds range from 15574
to 16227 rpm. This observation suggests that higher inlet pressures generally lead to
higher rotational speeds of the turbine.

Simultaneously, there is a clear trend in specific steam consumption inversely

correlated with turbine rotational speed. At lower turbine speeds, specific steam
consumption is considerably higher. For instance, at 180 kPag inlet pressure, the specific
steam consumption ranges from 5104.37 to 5976.92 kg/kWh as the rotational speed
increases from 9539 to 9745 rpm. Conversely, at higher rotational speeds, specific steam
consumption decreases notably. At the same inlet pressure of 180 kPag, specific steam
consumption decreases to 617.21 kg/kWh as the rotational speed increases from 9539
to 16227 rpm.

This inverse relationship between turbine rotational speed and specific steam
consumption can be attributed to the efficiency of steam utilization within the turbine.
Higher rotational speeds indicate more efficient energy conversion, resulting in lower
specific steam consumption. This phenomenon underscores the importance of optimizing
turbine operation to achieve higher efficiency and reduced steam consumption per unit of
power generated.

In summary, the data illustrates a clear relationship between turbine rotational

speed and specific steam consumption, with higher speeds correlating to lower steam
consumption. This insight underscores the significance of operational parameters in
determining the efficiency of steam turbine systems and highlights the potential for
optimizing performance to achieve more sustainable and efficient energy generation.

REFERENCES

P.A HILTON S220 Steam Turbine Experimental, Operating, and Maintenance Manua
“Performance Analysis of a Steam Turbine under Variable Operating Conditions”
by A.H. Nezhad et al. (2012)
“Steam Turbines and Their Cycles” by J.G. Knudsen and D.L. (2008)

Links:
(PDF) Study on variable condition model for steam turbine based on internal and external
characteristics (researchgate.net)
https://toolbox.tlv.com/global/TI/calculator/superheated-steam-table.html
Essentials of Steam Turbine Design and Analysis | AIChE