Difference Between Impulse Turbine & Reaction Turbine - Hydraulic Turbines - Fluid Mechanics

TL;DR

Impulse turbines convert all the energy of water into kinetic energy, while reaction turbines convert both kinetic energy and pressure energy.

Transcript

Do subscribe to Ekeeda Channel and press bell icon to get updates about latest engineering HSC and IIT JEE main and advanced videos so Hello students today the topic that we'll be studying they've already some complete the chapter almost and the last topic that we remain with is the difference between the impulse turbine hydraulic turbines so we'v... Read More

Key Insights

• 💦 Impulse turbines convert all the energy of water into kinetic energy, while reaction turbines convert both kinetic energy and pressure energy.
• 💦 Impulse turbines do not need to run full, while reaction turbines must always be full of water.
• 💦 Water flow in impulse turbines directly strikes the fixed blade, while reaction turbines use guide vanes to direct water flow before striking the moving blades.
• 💱 Work output in impulse turbines is due to a change in kinetic energy, while in reaction turbines, it is due to changes in both kinetic and pressure energy.
• 🌸 Impulse turbines allow for regulated flow of water without losses, while it is not possible in reaction turbines.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main difference between impulse and reaction turbines?

The main difference is that impulse turbines convert all the energy of water into kinetic energy, while reaction turbines convert both kinetic energy and pressure energy.

Q: Why does the pressure inside impulse turbines remain atmospheric?

In impulse turbines, the pressure inside is always atmospheric because the whole energy is converted to kinetic energy, eliminating the need for pressure energy.

Q: Why must reaction turbines always be full of water?

Reaction turbines must always be full of water to prevent air leakage and maintain efficiency. If there is any gap or empty space, air can enter the turbine and reduce its efficiency.

Q: How does water flow in impulse and reaction turbines differ?

In impulse turbines, water directly strikes the fixed blade, while in reaction turbines, it goes through guide vanes to ensure proper direction before striking the moving blades.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Impulse turbines convert all the energy of water into kinetic energy, while reaction turbines convert both kinetic energy and pressure energy.

• In impulse turbines, the turbine does not need to run full, while in reaction turbines, it must always be full of water to avoid loss in efficiency.

• Water flow in impulse turbines directly strikes the fixed blade, while in reaction turbines, it goes through guide vanes before striking the moving blades.