LearnChemE

Turbines and Compressors: Summary

The answers to the ConcepTests are given below and will open in a separate window. 
Key points from this module:
  • Turbines and compressors are usually assumed to be adiabatic.
  • An irreversible turbine generates less work than a reversible turbine at the same inlet conditions and the same outlet pressure.
  • An irreversible compressor requires more work than a reversible compressor at the same inlet conditions and the same outlet pressure. 
  • For an ideal gas feed, an irreversible turbine (or compressor) generates the same work as a reversible turbine (or compressor) at the same inlet conditions and the same outlet temperature.
From studying this module, you should now be able to:
  • Distinguish between thermal efficiency and efficiencies of a compressor, or turbine that is due to irreversibilities.
  • Apply efficiencies to calculate work for irreversible compressors and turbines.
  • Calculate outlet temperatures for compressors and turbines.

 

Prepared by John L. Falconer, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder