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In commercial power plants steam generators can measure up to 70 feet (~21m) in height and weigh as much as 800 tons. Each steam generator can contain anywhere from 3,000 to 16,000 tubes, each about three-quarters of an inch (~19mm) in diameter. The coolant (treated water), which is maintained at high pressure to prevent boiling, is pumped through the nuclear reactor core. Heat transfer takes place between the reactor core and the circulating water and the coolant is then pumped through the primary tube side of the steam generator by coolant pumps before returning to the reactor core. This is referred to as the primary loop.

That water flowing through the steam generator boils water on the shell side to produce steam in the secondary loop that is delivered to the turbines to make electricity. The steam is subsequently condensed via cooled water from the tertiary loop and returned to the steam generator to be heated once again. The tertiary cooling water may be recirculated to cooling towers where it sheds waste heat before returning to condense more steam. Once through tertiary cooling may otherwise be provided by a river, lake, or ocean. This primary, secondary, tertiary cooling scheme is the most common way to extract usable energy from a controlled nuclear reaction.

These loops also have an important safety role because they constitute one of the primary barriers between the radioactive and non-radioactive sides of the plant as the primary coolant becomes radioactive from its exposure to the core. For this reason, the integrity of the tubing is essential in minimizing the leakage of water between the two sides of the plant. There is the potential that, if a tube bursts while a plant is operating, contaminated steam could escape directly to the secondary cooling loop. Thus during scheduled maintenance outages or shutdowns, some or all of the steam generator tubes are inspected by eddy-current testing. sry if this didnt help im only thirteen sry sry sry sry

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What is the job of steam in the plant?

In a plant, steam serves several critical functions, primarily as a medium for transferring heat. It is used in processes such as heating, sterilization, and cooking, enabling the efficient processing of materials. Additionally, steam can drive turbines for power generation and facilitate the operation of various equipment through pressure. Overall, steam plays a vital role in enhancing productivity and maintaining optimal operating conditions within the plant.


Did the power loom use steam engine?

The power loom, invented by Edmund Cartwright in the late 18th century, did not initially use a steam engine. Instead, it was originally powered by water wheels. However, later advancements in technology allowed steam engines to be used to power power looms in textile factories, significantly increasing production efficiency. This integration of steam power played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution.


When did James what improve the steam engine?

James Watt significantly improved the steam engine in the late 18th century, particularly with his patented design in 1769. His enhancements included the separate condenser, which greatly increased efficiency and reduced fuel consumption. These improvements played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution, making steam power more practical for various industries.


Where was The nations first steam-powered sawmill built?

The nation's first steam-powered sawmill was built in 1829 in Batavia, New York. This innovative mill marked a significant advancement in lumber production, utilizing steam power to enhance efficiency and output compared to traditional water-powered mills. It played a crucial role in the development of the timber industry in the United States.


What is the role of governor in hydro-power plant?

The governor in a hydro-power plant is a crucial device that regulates the turbine's speed and ensures stable power output. It automatically adjusts the flow of water to the turbines based on the demand for electricity and the load on the system, maintaining optimal performance and preventing overspeed conditions. By responding to changes in electrical demand, the governor helps maintain grid stability and enhances the overall efficiency of the power generation process.

Related Questions

What is the role of the steam in a nuclear power plant?

It Powers the Huge turbine that produces electricity.


Describe the role of steam in a nuclear power plant?

In a nuclear power plant, steam is generated by heat produced from the nuclear fission reaction. This steam is used to spin turbines connected to generators, producing electricity. The steam is then condensed back into water and reused in a continuous cycle.


What role do fuel rods play in generating energy?

Fuel rods are the nuclear fuel in a nuclear power plant. They are used to turn water to steam, which is then used to turn a turbine. They do not "generate energy", since energy cannot be created or destroyed (E=mc^2). They are used to generate electricity, or to convert nuclear energy to electric energy.


What is plutonium role in nuclear power?

Plutonium (as dioxide, carbide, mixed oxides or carbides) is an important nuclear fuel for nuclear power reactors.


How much power in Georgia is nuclear?

In Georgia, nuclear power accounts for approximately 25% of the state's electricity generation. This is mainly due to the two nuclear power plants located in Georgia: Plant Vogtle and Plant Hatch. These facilities play a significant role in providing clean and reliable energy to the state's residents.


What is the job of steam in the plant?

In a plant, steam serves several critical functions, primarily as a medium for transferring heat. It is used in processes such as heating, sterilization, and cooking, enabling the efficient processing of materials. Additionally, steam can drive turbines for power generation and facilitate the operation of various equipment through pressure. Overall, steam plays a vital role in enhancing productivity and maintaining optimal operating conditions within the plant.


What causes the japan nuclear power plant to malfunction?

The malfunction of the Japan nuclear power plant, such as the Fukushima Daiichi plant in 2011, was primarily caused by a combination of a powerful earthquake and subsequent tsunami. The natural disaster damaged the plant's cooling systems, leading to overheating of the reactors and ultimately resulting in nuclear meltdowns and releases of radioactive materials. Regulatory and operational shortcomings also played a role in the accident.


Name an important atomic power station in maharashtra?

The Tarapur Atomic Power Station in Maharashtra is one of the important nuclear power plants in India. It was the country's first commercial nuclear power plant and plays a significant role in meeting Maharashtra's energy needs.


How does nuclear energy water and coal make electricity?

Electric power is created by turning a generator at speeds fast enough to produce energy. Nuclear and Coal powered plants use heat to create steam to force the turning of a generator. Water power uses a difference in height from input to output to produce the desired turning of the generators.


What is the role of steam in facilitating the distillation of essential oils?

Steam facilitates the distillation of essential oils by carrying the volatile compounds from the plant material to the condensation flask. The heat from the steam causes the plant material to release its aromatic compounds, which are then carried with the steam and condensed into a liquid form. This process helps separate the essential oils from the plant material.


What was James Watt's invention in the 1700s?

James Watt is known for his all important invention of the steam engine which lead to the invention of the locomotive and of the power plants.Even today's nuclear power plants apply the power of steam to make energy.


Is nuclear energy used in Louisiana?

Yes, Louisiana does have two nuclear power plants: Waterford Steam Electric Station in Killona and River Bend Nuclear Generating Station in St. Francisville. These facilities generate electricity for the state and play a role in Louisiana's energy mix.