What is the definition of a Curtis stage turbine?

What is the definition of a Curtis stage turbine?

• A. A reaction turbine
• B. A velocity-compounded impulse turbine
• C. A constant pressure turbine
• D. A variable speed turbine

Answer: (B)

A Curtis stage turbine is defined as a velocity-compounded impulse turbine. This specific design utilizes a combination of both impulse and reaction principles, where steam expands through a set of nozzles that convert pressure energy into kinetic energy. In a Curtis stage, the high-velocity steam strikes the blades of a rotor, imparting its energy and causing rotation. The key aspect of its design is that it features multiple impulse stages, which means the steam passes through a series of nozzle blades that are designed to maximize energy extraction from the steam. Velocity-compounding is particularly effective in this type of turbine as it allows for efficient energy conversion by minimizing the lost energy that could occur if the steam expanded too rapidly in a single stage. This makes the Curtis stage turbine effective in generating power, especially in applications that require a high-speed turbine. Understanding this configuration helps to appreciate its role in steam turbine technology, distinguishing it from other types that may operate on entirely different principles or respond differently to variations in operational conditions.

A Curtis stage turbine is defined as a velocity-compounded impulse turbine. This specific design utilizes a combination of both impulse and reaction principles, where steam expands through a set of nozzles that convert pressure energy into kinetic energy. In a Curtis stage, the high-velocity steam strikes the blades of a rotor, imparting its energy and causing rotation. The key aspect of its design is that it features multiple impulse stages, which means the steam passes through a series of nozzle blades that are designed to maximize energy extraction from the steam.

Velocity-compounding is particularly effective in this type of turbine as it allows for efficient energy conversion by minimizing the lost energy that could occur if the steam expanded too rapidly in a single stage. This makes the Curtis stage turbine effective in generating power, especially in applications that require a high-speed turbine. Understanding this configuration helps to appreciate its role in steam turbine technology, distinguishing it from other types that may operate on entirely different principles or respond differently to variations in operational conditions.