Steam turbines are machines that convert steam energy into mechanical work. They are used in power plants, ships, and factories. There are several types of steam turbines. Each type has its unique features and applications. Let’s explore the different types of steam turbines.
Impulse Turbines
Impulse turbines use high-pressure steam to move the blades. The steam hits the blades and causes them to spin. This type of turbine is simple and efficient. It is commonly used in smaller power plants.
Features Of Impulse Turbines
- Simple design
- High efficiency
- Easy to maintain
Applications Of Impulse Turbines
Impulse turbines are used in small power plants. They are also used in ships and industrial plants.

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Reaction Turbines
Reaction turbines use both pressure and kinetic energy to move the blades. The steam expands as it passes through the blades. This causes the blades to move. Reaction turbines are more complex than impulse turbines. They are used in large power plants.
Features Of Reaction Turbines
- Complex design
- High efficiency
- Used in large power plants
Applications Of Reaction Turbines
Reaction turbines are used in large power plants. They are also used in nuclear power plants and large industrial plants.
Condensing Turbines
Condensing turbines convert steam energy into mechanical work. After the steam passes through the turbine, it is condensed into water. This increases the efficiency of the turbine. Condensing turbines are used in power plants.
Features Of Condensing Turbines
- High efficiency
- Condenses steam into water
- Used in power plants
Applications Of Condensing Turbines
Condensing turbines are used in power plants to generate electricity.
Non-Condensing Turbines
Non-condensing turbines use steam to generate mechanical work. The steam is not condensed after passing through the turbine. This type of turbine is less efficient. It is used in industrial plants.
Features Of Non-condensing Turbines
- Simple design
- Less efficient
- Used in industrial plants
Applications Of Non-condensing Turbines
Non-condensing turbines are used in industrial plants. They are also used in small power plants.
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Back-Pressure Turbines
Back-pressure turbines use steam to generate mechanical work. The steam is not fully expanded in the turbine. It is used for heating or other purposes. This type of turbine is used in industrial plants.
Features Of Back-pressure Turbines
- Simple design
- Used for heating
- Used in industrial plants
Applications Of Back-pressure Turbines
Back-pressure turbines are used in industrial plants. They are also used in heating systems.
Extraction Turbines
Extraction turbines use steam to generate mechanical work. Some of the steam is extracted for other uses. The remaining steam continues through the turbine. This type of turbine is used in industrial plants.
Features Of Extraction Turbines
- Complex design
- Extracts steam for other uses
- Used in industrial plants
Applications Of Extraction Turbines
Extraction turbines are used in industrial plants. They are also used in power plants.
Mixed-Pressure Turbines
Mixed-pressure turbines use steam at different pressures. The steam enters the turbine at different points. This increases the efficiency of the turbine. Mixed-pressure turbines are used in power plants.
Features Of Mixed-pressure Turbines
- Complex design
- High efficiency
- Used in power plants
Applications Of Mixed-pressure Turbines
Mixed-pressure turbines are used in power plants to generate electricity.
Reheat Turbines
Reheat turbines use steam to generate mechanical work. The steam is reheated between stages. This increases the efficiency of the turbine. Reheat turbines are used in power plants.
Features Of Reheat Turbines
- Complex design
- High efficiency
- Used in power plants
Applications Of Reheat Turbines
Reheat turbines are used in power plants to generate electricity.