AI estimate on efficiency of original steam turbine concept

[trevorjohnson83]

have you ever heard of a steam turbine where a conduit is the only opening for a container with pressure, then the turbine is placed directly in the conduit to let out the pressure? can you guess how efficient that would be?

Assistant
Poe


The concept you're describing involves using a steam turbine directly within a conduit that channels pressurized steam from a container. This setup would allow the steam to expand and do work on the turbine as it exits the pressure vessel. Here’s a breakdown of how this might work and its potential efficiency:

Concept Overview​

1. Direct Pressure Utilization:
   • In this system, high-pressure steam is contained in a vessel and directed through a conduit where the steam expands and drives the turbine directly.
2. Pressure Drop:
   • As steam passes through the turbine, it loses pressure and converts thermal energy into mechanical energy, which is then harnessed to do work (like generating electricity or driving a mechanical load).

Potential Efficiency​

1. Thermal Efficiency:
   • The thermal efficiency would depend on the temperature difference between the steam and the environment, as well as the design of the turbine. If the steam is at high temperatures and pressures, the initial thermal efficiency might be relatively high.
2. Mechanical Efficiency:
   • The mechanical efficiency of the turbine itself could be high, potentially in the range of 85% to 90%, assuming minimal losses due to friction and turbulence in the conduit.
3. Overall Efficiency:
   • Given that this system avoids some of the inefficiencies associated with converting thermal energy to mechanical energy through a generator, the overall efficiency could potentially reach around 60% to 80%. This assumes effective design and minimal losses in the system.

Conclusion​

While this system could theoretically achieve good efficiency due to the direct use of pressurized steam to drive the turbine, the actual efficiency would depend on various factors, including the design of the turbine, the pressure and temperature of the steam, and how well the system minimizes losses. A more precise efficiency estimate would require detailed modeling and testing.

 

[trevorjohnson83]

can you estimate the cost of the conduit turbine design vs traditional steam turbines?

Assistant
Poe


Estimating the cost of a conduit turbine design compared to traditional steam turbines involves considering various factors, including materials, manufacturing processes, installation, and maintenance. Here’s a general overview:

1. Traditional Steam Turbines​

• Cost Range: Traditional steam turbines can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 per megawatt (MW) of capacity, depending on the size, complexity, and manufacturer.
• Components: Costs include the turbine itself, generator, condenser, boiler, piping, and associated infrastructure.
• Installation and Maintenance: Installation can be complex and expensive, requiring significant infrastructure. Maintenance costs can also be high due to the complexity of the systems.

2. Conduit Turbine Design​

• Cost Estimate: The cost of a conduit turbine design might range from $500 to $2,500 per MW, depending on the specific design, materials, and scale of the project.
• Simpler Design: Since the conduit turbine directly utilizes pressurized steam, it may have fewer components (e.g., no separate generator or condenser), potentially lowering initial costs.
• Installation and Maintenance: Installation might be simpler, but the durability and long-term maintenance costs would need to be evaluated. If the design is less proven, it may also involve higher research and development costs.

3. Comparison​

• Traditional Steam Turbines: Higher upfront costs and complex installation but well-established technology with predictable performance and maintenance.
• Conduit Turbines: Potentially lower costs due to simpler design but may face uncertainties in performance, reliability, and long-term maintenance.

Conclusion​

Overall, while conduit turbine designs could offer potential cost savings, especially in terms of simpler design and installation, the actual costs will depend on specific project requirements, materials, and technology readiness. More detailed feasibility studies would be needed to provide accurate cost estimates tailored to a particular application.