Turbines

A turbine is a machine that converts energy in a moving fluid into rotational mechanical energy. The energy source can be kinetic, as in wind or water, or thermal, as in steam or combustion gases. Turbines use a rotor with blades to extract momentum and transfer it to a shaft.

Major turbine types include steam, gas, hydroelectric (water), and wind turbines. Each class uses different fluids and cycles but shares the goal of turning fluid energy into shaft work.

Steam turbines are driven by high-pressure steam from a boiler. Steam expands through stages of fixed and moving blades, imparting torque to the rotor and powering most thermal plants.

Gas turbines operate on the Brayton cycle, using a compressor, combustor, and turbine. They produce high power density and are often used with combined cycles to improve efficiency.

Hydraulic or water turbines convert flowing water into rotation. Common types—Pelton, Francis, Kaplan—are chosen for head and flow and form the core of modern hydroelectric plants.

Wind turbines capture kinetic wind energy with rotor blades and drive electrical generators, typically through gearboxes or direct-drive systems. They range from small installations to large offshore farms.

Turbines are central to power generation, propulsion, and industrial drives. Efficiency depends on design, materials, and operating conditions, while environmental and regulatory considerations influence siting and operation.