Chapter 1 - Steam Power Plant Cycles

Abstract

Thermodynamics deals with the conversion of one form of energy to another. In a thermodynamic cycle a fluid is returned to its initial state after transfer of heat/work across the system boundary. Laws of thermodynamics form the basis on which the whole foundation of thermodynamics is developed. The first law of thermodynamics states that heat and work are mutually convertible, and the second law of Thermodynamics states that work must always be less than heat. From the entropy of a fluid we can assess the degree of conversion of heat into work. The Carnot Cycle lays the foundation of second law of thermodynamics. The Rankine cycle calculates the maximum possible work that can be developed by an engine using dry saturated steam between the pressure limits of boiler and condenser. With the help of reheat-regenerative cycle the efficiency of a plant can be enhanced substantially. Other cycles of interest are the Kalina cycle, binary, vapor cycle, etc.