A large percentage of the world's electricity is generated in vapor-cycle power systems. The steam is then expanded through a turbine, which drives an electrical generator to produce power. The process undergone by the water vapor in these systems is known as a Rankine cycle. The thermodynamic characteristics of this cycle, along with several modifications, are studied in a laboratory, which uses the building steam supply to provide the steam flow to a turbine. The design of the turbine and its influence on overall system performance is also analyzed in detail.
Students report their results in both oral and written formats.
Compressors, Combustors, and Turbines Because of the increasing demand for fossil fuels and the subsequent reduction in world reserves, the efficient use of energy is a primary concern with both social and technical implications. Therefore, a basic understanding of turbomachines is essential in order to ensure efficient utilization of energy. The purpose of this laboratory is to familiarize the student with the performance characteristics of some common components associated with turbomachinery. Compressors, combustors, and turbines are first studied individually, and then concurrently as in a helicopter gas turbine engine. Relationships among such parameters as efficiency, power input or output, mass flow rate, temperature, and pressure changes are evaluated.