stoomturbine

A stoomturbine, or steam turbine, is a rotary heat engine that extracts thermal energy from pressurized steam and uses it to do mechanical work on a rotating output shaft. This is distinct from a steam engine, which uses reciprocating pistons to produce mechanical motion. The turbine is the main component of a steam power plant, where the combustion of fuels like coal, natural gas, or nuclear fission generates heat to produce high-pressure steam.

The basic principle of operation involves directing high-pressure steam onto a series of blades attached to a rotor. The steam expands as it passes through the turbine, transferring its kinetic and thermal energy to the rotor, causing it to spin. The steam then exits the turbine at a lower pressure and temperature. Multiple stages of blades, with progressively larger diameters and different blade designs, are often used to efficiently extract energy from the steam as it expands.

Stoomturbines are widely used for electricity generation in power plants. They are also employed in industrial applications requiring mechanical power, such as driving pumps, compressors, and ships. Their high efficiency and ability to handle large amounts of power make them a cornerstone of modern energy production. Key components include the casing, rotor with blades, nozzles, and a condenser to cool the exhaust steam and create a vacuum, enhancing efficiency.