Functions of some important parts of a steam power plant
1. Boiler
Water is converted into wet steam.
2. Superheater
It converts wet steam into superheated steam.
3. Turbine
Steam at high pressure expands in the turbine and drives the generator.
4. Condenser
It condenses steam used by the steam turbine. The condensed steam (known as condensate) is used as a feed water.
5. Cooling tower
It cools the condenser circulating water. Condenser cooling water absorbs heat from steam. This heat is discharged to atmosphere in cooling water.
6. Condenser circulating water pump
It circulates water through the condenser and the cooling tower.
7. Feed water pump
It pumps water in the water tubes of boiler against boiler steam pressure.
8. Economiser
In economiser heat in flue gases is partially used to heat incoming feed water.
9. Air preheater
In air preheater heat in flue gases (the products of combustion) is partially used to heat incoming air.
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| Layout of a steam power plant |
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