Impulse Turbines vs. Reaction Turbines

Attribute	Impulse Turbines	Reaction Turbines
Working Principle	Impulse of water is converted into kinetic energy	Both impulse and reaction of water are converted into kinetic energy
Blades	Fixed blades	Moving blades
Efficiency	Higher efficiency	Lower efficiency compared to impulse turbines
Speed	Higher speed	Lower speed
Applications	High head, low flow applications	Low head, high flow applications

Introduction

Impulse turbines and reaction turbines are two common types of turbines used in various industries for power generation. While both types of turbines serve the same purpose of converting fluid energy into mechanical energy, they operate on different principles and have distinct attributes that make them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will compare the attributes of impulse turbines and reaction turbines to understand their differences and advantages.

Impulse Turbines

Impulse turbines are a type of turbine that operates based on the principle of impulse. In an impulse turbine, the fluid flow is directed onto the turbine blades, where the fluid's kinetic energy is converted into mechanical energy. The pressure of the fluid remains constant throughout the turbine, and the energy transfer occurs solely due to the change in velocity of the fluid. This makes impulse turbines suitable for high head applications where a large amount of energy needs to be extracted from a high-pressure fluid stream.

• Operate based on the principle of impulse
• Fluid flow is directed onto the turbine blades
• Pressure of the fluid remains constant
• Energy transfer occurs due to change in velocity
• Suitable for high head applications

Reaction Turbines

Reaction turbines, on the other hand, operate based on the principle of reaction. In a reaction turbine, the fluid flow passes through the turbine blades, and both the pressure and velocity of the fluid change as it moves through the turbine. The energy transfer in a reaction turbine occurs due to both the change in velocity and pressure of the fluid. This makes reaction turbines suitable for low head applications where a large volume of fluid needs to be processed to extract energy efficiently.

• Operate based on the principle of reaction
• Fluid flow passes through the turbine blades
• Both pressure and velocity of the fluid change
• Energy transfer occurs due to change in velocity and pressure
• Suitable for low head applications

Efficiency

When it comes to efficiency, both impulse turbines and reaction turbines have their advantages. Impulse turbines are known for their high efficiency at high head applications, where the constant pressure of the fluid allows for efficient energy transfer through changes in velocity. On the other hand, reaction turbines are more efficient at low head applications, where the change in pressure and velocity of the fluid can be utilized to extract energy effectively. The choice between impulse and reaction turbines depends on the specific requirements of the application and the available fluid conditions.

Design Complexity

The design complexity of impulse turbines and reaction turbines also differs based on their operating principles. Impulse turbines are generally simpler in design compared to reaction turbines, as they do not involve complex changes in pressure within the turbine. This simplicity in design makes impulse turbines easier to manufacture and maintain, reducing overall costs. In contrast, reaction turbines require more intricate designs to accommodate the changes in pressure and velocity of the fluid, making them more complex and potentially more expensive to build and maintain.

Applications

Impulse turbines and reaction turbines are used in various applications based on their specific attributes. Impulse turbines are commonly used in hydroelectric power plants where high head applications are prevalent, allowing for efficient energy extraction from high-pressure water streams. On the other hand, reaction turbines are often used in low head applications such as tidal power plants or wastewater treatment facilities, where a large volume of fluid needs to be processed to generate power effectively. Understanding the specific requirements of the application is crucial in selecting the appropriate type of turbine for optimal performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, impulse turbines and reaction turbines have distinct attributes that make them suitable for different applications based on their operating principles. Impulse turbines operate based on the principle of impulse, while reaction turbines operate based on the principle of reaction. The choice between impulse and reaction turbines depends on factors such as efficiency, design complexity, and specific application requirements. By understanding the differences between impulse turbines and reaction turbines, engineers and designers can select the most suitable turbine type for optimal performance and energy extraction.