Is the mass flow rate in a regenerative vapor power cycle constant?

Thread starter PhyIsOhSoHard
Start date Mar 15, 2015
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Constant Cycle Flow Flow rate Mass Mass flow Mass flow rate Power Rate Vapor

In summary, a regenerative vapor power cycle is a type of power cycle used in thermal power plants that involves the use of a regenerator to improve efficiency. The working fluid is heated in a boiler and expanded through a turbine before passing through a regenerator and condenser. The purpose of the regenerator is to preheat the feedwater and reduce fuel consumption. The mass flow rate in this cycle is not constant and has a direct impact on efficiency, as a lower mass flow rate requires less fuel but can also decrease power output if too low.

Mar 15, 2015

PhyIsOhSoHard

Does the mass flow rate differ depending on whether it's after the feedwater heaters or before the turbines or is it just constant throughout the entire system?

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Mar 15, 2015

billy_joule

Science Advisor

At steady state? What does conservation of mass say?

Related to Is the mass flow rate in a regenerative vapor power cycle constant?

1. What is a regenerative vapor power cycle?

A regenerative vapor power cycle is a type of power cycle used in thermal power plants that involves the use of a regenerator to improve the efficiency of the cycle. It typically consists of a boiler, turbine, condenser, and pump.

2. How does a regenerative vapor power cycle work?

In a regenerative vapor power cycle, the working fluid is heated in the boiler and then expanded through the turbine, producing mechanical work. The exhaust steam from the turbine is then passed through a regenerator, where it transfers some of its heat to the feedwater before entering the condenser. The condenser then cools the steam back into liquid form, and the pump returns the liquid to the boiler to be heated again.

3. What is the purpose of a regenerator in a vapor power cycle?

The purpose of a regenerator in a vapor power cycle is to improve the efficiency of the cycle by preheating the feedwater before it enters the boiler. This reduces the amount of heat that needs to be added to the working fluid in the boiler, resulting in lower fuel consumption and higher overall efficiency.

4. Is the mass flow rate constant in a regenerative vapor power cycle?

No, the mass flow rate in a regenerative vapor power cycle is not constant. The use of a regenerator allows for a portion of the exhaust steam to be redirected and used to preheat the feedwater, which means that less steam needs to be supplied by the boiler. This results in a lower overall mass flow rate in the cycle.

5. How does the mass flow rate affect the efficiency of a regenerative vapor power cycle?

The mass flow rate has a direct impact on the efficiency of a regenerative vapor power cycle. A lower mass flow rate means that less fuel is required to heat the working fluid, resulting in higher efficiency. However, if the mass flow rate is too low, it can lead to reduced power output from the turbine and potentially decrease the overall efficiency of the cycle.