What mechanism ensures proper alignment in a steam turbine?

What mechanism ensures proper alignment in a steam turbine?

• A. Thrust collar
• B. Guide bearings
• C. Alignment pins
• D. Clamping bolts

Answer: (B)

The correct response focuses on the function of guide bearings in a steam turbine system. Guide bearings are crucial for ensuring the rotor of the turbine is properly aligned with the stator. These bearings support the shaft and allow it to maintain a stable position during operation, which is essential for optimal performance and efficiency. By keeping the rotor aligned, guide bearings help minimize wear and tear on the components and reduce the chances of operational issues, such as imbalances that could lead to vibrations or damages. While other components, such as thrust collars, alignment pins, and clamping bolts, may play roles in various aspects of machinery assembly or stability, they do not specifically address the alignment of rotating parts within the turbine in the same manner as guide bearings. Thrust collars manage axial thrust, alignment pins are generally used for assembling parts rather than operational alignment, and clamping bolts secure components but do not provide dynamic support during turbine operation. Therefore, the primary responsibility of ensuring proper alignment in a steam turbine falls to the guide bearings.

The correct response focuses on the function of guide bearings in a steam turbine system. Guide bearings are crucial for ensuring the rotor of the turbine is properly aligned with the stator. These bearings support the shaft and allow it to maintain a stable position during operation, which is essential for optimal performance and efficiency. By keeping the rotor aligned, guide bearings help minimize wear and tear on the components and reduce the chances of operational issues, such as imbalances that could lead to vibrations or damages.

While other components, such as thrust collars, alignment pins, and clamping bolts, may play roles in various aspects of machinery assembly or stability, they do not specifically address the alignment of rotating parts within the turbine in the same manner as guide bearings. Thrust collars manage axial thrust, alignment pins are generally used for assembling parts rather than operational alignment, and clamping bolts secure components but do not provide dynamic support during turbine operation. Therefore, the primary responsibility of ensuring proper alignment in a steam turbine falls to the guide bearings.