Difference between impulse and reaction turbine
- 3. Energy transformation( i.e from pressure energy to kinetic energy takes place only in nozzle for impulse turbine Reaction turbines don't have nozzle and energy transformation takes place in both moving as well as fixed blades
- 4. Impulse turbines have constant blade channel area as energy transformation don't have to take place Reaction turbine have converging blade channel area so that they can act as nozzle
- 5. Impulse turbines have profile blade shape Reaction turbine have airfoil blade shape
- 6. Impulse turbines have low efficiency due to high losses Reaction turbine have high efficiency compared to impulse turbines
- 7. Impulse turbines have scope for partial admission of steam and hence both nozzle and throttle governing can be employed for impulse turbines Reaction turbines requires full admission of steam and hence only throttle governing can be used for reaction turbine
- 8. Impulse turbines are cheap because of easy and low cost manufacturing and also have low cost maintenance Reaction turbines are costly because of high cost manufacturing and also have maintenance cost is also high
- 9. Impulse turbines are lighter in weight due to lighter blades and hence have lower stresses in revolving parts Reaction turbines are bulkier due to heavier blades and hence high stresses in revolving parts
- 10. Impulse turbines have lower leakage losses between blade tips and casing because of equal pressure across the clearance Reaction turbines have high leakage losses between blade tips and casing because of pressure gradient across the clearance
- 11. Impulse turbines are used for lower power generation Reaction turbines are used for higher capacity of power generation