Reaction turbine

(mechanical engineering) A power-generation prime mover utilizing the steady-flow principle of fluid acceleration, where nozzles are mounted on the moving element.

A power-generation prime mover utilizing the steady-flow principle of fluid acceleration, where nozzles are mounted on the moving element. The rotor is turned by the reaction of the issuing fluid jet and is utilized in varying degrees in steam, gas, and hydraulic turbines. All turbines contain nozzles; the distinction between the impulse and reaction principles rests in the fact that impulse turbines use only stationary nozzles, while reaction turbines must incorporate moving nozzles. See also Impulse turbine; Prime mover.