Parson's turbine is a reaction turbine.

Reaction turbines are a type of hydraulic turbine that operates based on the principle of both impulse and reaction. They are commonly used in power generation applications, such as hydroelectric power plants. Parson's turbine, also known as the steam turbine, is a specific type of reaction turbine invented by Sir Charles Parsons in the late 19th century.

What is a reaction turbine?

Reaction turbines are designed to extract energy from a fluid's pressure and velocity. They work by consistently changing the direction of fluid flow as it passes through the turbine, causing a reaction force that turns the turbine blades. This reaction force is due to the change in momentum of the fluid.

How does a Parson's turbine work?

A Parson's turbine is a steam turbine that utilizes high-pressure steam to generate rotational motion. It consists of several stages, each with a row of stationary blades called stator blades and a row of moving blades called rotor blades. The steam enters the turbine and passes through the stator blades, which are curved to redirect the steam flow and increase its velocity. As the high-velocity steam flows through the rotor blades, it exerts a reaction force that rotates the rotor.

Advantages of Parson's turbine

- High efficiency: Parson's turbines have a high efficiency due to their ability to extract energy from both the pressure and velocity of the steam.
- Compact design: Parson's turbines are compact and have a high power-to-weight ratio, making them suitable for various applications.
- Wide range of operation: They can operate efficiently at different load conditions, making them versatile in power generation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Parson's turbine is a type of reaction turbine that utilizes high-pressure steam to generate rotational motion. It is known for its high efficiency, compact design, and wide range of operation.