Paper 3: Nuclear Wet-Steam Turbines

Abstract

Turbines which operate on steam initially slightly wet are required by several varieties of nuclear reactor at present in service. Such turbines differ substantially from conventional fossil-fuel turbines and special measures are necessary to avoid erosive damage and to achieve reasonable efficiency. Water separation by various methods during the expansion is universal, and steam-to-steam reheat is common. Some reactors produce radioactive steam with a high oxygen content, requiring further precautions. Examples are given of wet-steam turbines already in service, and under construction, and estimates are made of the limiting ratings that can at present be contemplated.