![]() ![]() These aeroderivative gas turbines have had a niche in the electrical generation industry for several decades. Instead of producing thrust, these machines can turn a generator to produce electricity. It is becoming a common practice to use the same technology to produce electricity by adding a power turbine to the machine. There is one major moving part, the rotor on which the compressor and turbine turn. The gases are then accelerated through a nozzle to produce thrust. The combustion gases are expanded through a turbine that drives the compressor. The fuel/air mixture burns, adding heat to a mixture of combustion products. Air is compressed and fed into a combustion chamber where fuel is injected. Engines similar to jet engines might be a better choice for advanced systems.Ī jet engine heat cycle is rather simple. ![]() In comparison, a steam plant with the same output would fill up a large portion of the interior of the aircraft and its weight would prevent take off.Īll operating nuclear stations use steam engines to convert heat into useful work. The engines on a 747 can produce approximately 40 megawatts (MW) of useful power. They are compact, mechanically simple and lightweight. The engines hanging under the wing offer a clue leading to one path for reducing the cost of uranium based electricity. The next time you travel on a large jet, look out the window. Changes in each of these areas offers the opportunity for major cost reductions. There is room for process innovations that will improve efficiency, increase flexibility and reduce machinery complexity. Nuclear fission is still in its adolescence, especially when compared to combustion, its major competitor. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |