Condensing power generation

One of the basic functions of steam turbines is independent generation of power. For this purpose, condensing turbines are used. They are designed to use a higher pressure drop that is achieved by means of vacuum at turbine outlet to condenser. Output steam is cooled either by a water-cooling circuit or by an air condenser.

Residual energy drained by the condenser is released into the environment. Therefore, this type of installations puts emphasis on high efficiency of the turbine and the whole steam cycle.

Other uses of steam

Steam turbine can be also used to utilize the steam surpluses in technological processes. If a portion of steam is being wasted or even released into the atmosphere in a technological process, it is possible to use part of its energy to generate power. For this application, it is suitable to use a small condensing turbine that can utilize a higher pressure drop (by lowering the output pressure below the atmospheric pressure). Furthermore, the condensate can be applied back to the technological process.

Models of turbines: