PKM Educational Trust ®

R. R. Institute of Technology
Affiliated to VTU Belgaum and Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Recognised by Govt. of Karnataka,
Accredited by NAAC with ‘A+’
Since 1993
Raja Reddy Layout, Chikkabanavara, Bengaluru – 560 090 Department of Mechanical Engineering

MODULE: 2 8 hours
Energy exchange in Turbo machines: Euler’s turbine equation, Alternate form of Euler’s turbine equation, Velocity triangles for
different values of degree of reaction, Components of energy transfer, Degree of Reaction, utilization factor, Relation between
degree of reaction and Utilization factor, Problems.
General Analysis of Turbo machines: Radial flow compressors and pumps – general analysis, Expression for degree of reaction,
velocity triangles, Effect of blade discharge angle on energy transfer and degree of reaction, Effect of blade discharge angle on
performance, , General analysis of axial flow pumps and compressors, degree of reaction, velocity triangles, Numerical Problems.
MODULE:02 ENERGY TRANSFER IN TURBOMACHINES
2.1 Energy transfer in turbomachines:
Basic Euler turbine equation and its alternate form; components of energy transfer; general expression for degree of reaction;
construction of velocity triangles for different values of degree of reaction.
According to Newton’s second law of motion, the sum of all the forces acting on a control volume in a particular
direction is equal to the rate of change of linear momentum of the fluid across the control volume.

Suppose, 𝑉 𝑚
(F = m a N = m N = 𝑉𝑁
m = mass of the fluid (kg) 𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑡
𝑉1 = initial velocity of fluid (m/s)
𝑉2 = final velocity of fluid (m/s) = 𝑚ሶ 𝑉 N)

N
Similarly, we can state that the summation of all the torques acting on the system is equal to the rate of change of
angular momentum.

Question : Derive Euler’s turbine equation for power generating or power absorbing turbomachines and clearly state the
assumptions made.
Assumptions:
i) Fluid flow through the turbomachine is steady flow.
ii. Mass flow rate is constant and the state of the fluid doesn’t vary with time.
iii. Rate of energy transfer at the rotor is constant.
iv. Losses due to leakage are neglected.
Figure shows a rotor of a Radial component (𝑉𝑟2 )
generalized turbomachine, Axial component(𝑉𝑎2 )
• Where a–a represents the shaft Inlet fluid entry point (1)
of the machine, i.e. axis of Outlet fluid exit point (2)
rotation with an angular velocity
ω (rad/s).
• Fluid enters the rotor at point 1, Absolute
passes through the rotor by any Velocity(𝑉2 )
path and exits the rotor at point Tangential Axial component(𝑉𝑎1 )
2. Component (𝑉𝑤2 )
• The angle of entry and exit may
be considered arbitrary.
Radial component(𝑉𝑟1 )
Let 𝑉1 be the absolute velocity of
fluid entering the rotor at 1 and at (a-a)Axis of
any angle. This velocity vector may rotation
be resolved into three mutually of the
perpendicular components. Absolute velocity (𝑉1 ) Tangential turbomachine
• Axial component 𝑉𝑎1 Component
• Radial component 𝑉𝑟1 (𝑉𝑤1 )
• Tangential component 𝑉𝑤1 Figure shows a rotor of a generalized
Similarly 𝑉2 , 𝑉𝑎2 , 𝑉𝑟2 and 𝑉𝑤2 turbomachine,
Corresponding values of the fluid
leaving the rotor at 2
Let
V = absolute velocity of fluid (m/s), N = speed of the wheel
(rpm)
2
r = radius of the wheel (m)
2πN
ω = angular velocity of wheel (rotational speed) (rad/s) = Equations (1) and (2) are the forms of Euler turbine
60
𝑟𝑎𝑑 equation or Euler equation. This is applied to all
𝑠 turbomachines like pumps, fans, blowers, turbines
πdN (gas,steam,water) and compressors.
u = linear velocity of vane tip (peripheral velocity) (m/s) =
60 • 𝑉𝑤1 𝑢1 > Vw2 u2 the right hand side of the equation (2) is
𝑚
𝑠
Suffixes ‘1’ and ‘2’ refer to the values at the inlet and the positive, then the machine Is called turbine (Power
𝑚outlet respectively.
ሶ = mass flow rate of the fluid (kg/s) generating turbomachine).
d = rotor or drum diameter (m) • If 𝑉𝑤2 𝑢2 > 𝑉𝑤1 𝑢1 the right hand side of the equation (2) is
negative, then the machine is called Pump, fan, compressor
and blower (Power absorbing turbomachine).

Note: If Vw1u1 > Vw2u2 and if Vw2 is negative, i.e. Vw2

T = torque on the wheel is opposite to that of Vw1, then Eq. (2) can be written as
= change of angular
momentum 2a

𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐞𝐫 (𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞) 𝐖.𝐃 1

= =
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝
 𝑚
Axial component (𝑽𝒂 ) : This is parallel to the axis of rotation. Axial force is produced due (𝑢1 = ω 𝑟1
to the change in magnitude of this component. Axial force is taken care by thrust bearing 𝑠
𝑢2 = ω 𝑟2)
and finally transferred to the casing.
Radial component (𝑽𝑹 ) : This is parallel to the radius of the rotor. Radial force is Gravitational constant(𝑔𝑐 ) =
𝑘𝑔−𝑚
produced due to the change in magnitude of this component. This force is taken care by 𝑁−𝑆 2
π𝑑𝑁 𝑚
journal bearing. u=
60 𝑠
No torque is exerted on the rotor due to these two forces, i.e. axial and radial.
Tangential component (𝑽𝒘 ) : The torque is exerted on the rotor only due to the change in
the angular momentum of tangential component.
2.2 Alternate form of Euler turbine equation and its
components of energy transfer :
Question : Derive an alternate (modified) form of Euler’s
turbine equation with usual notations and identify each
component contained in the equation.
Or
Draw the velocity triangle at inlet and exit of a turbomachine
ω
in general and show that the energy transfer per unit mass is
given by
𝟏
E = 𝑽𝟐𝟏 − 𝑽𝟐𝟐 + 𝑼𝟐𝟏 − 𝑼𝟐𝟐 + 𝑽𝒓𝟐𝟐 − 𝑽𝒓𝟐𝟏
𝟐
𝐻
From Euler energy transfer equation (2) :
Parts of rotor of generalized turbomachine with inlet and
outlet velocity triangles
Let
V = absolute velocity of fluid From inlet velocity triangle ABD from the figure
𝑉𝑓1 2 = 𝑉1 2 − 𝑉𝑤1 2
𝑉𝑟 = relative velocity (relative to the rotor)
𝑉𝑓 = flow velocity. This is one component of absolute velocity Now consider the triangle BCD 𝑉𝑓1 2 = 𝑉𝑟1 2 - 𝑢1 − 𝑉𝑤1 2
V. It is called radial velocity in case of radial flow machines and
axial velocity in case of axial flow (4)
machines. From equations (3) and (4)
𝑉𝑊 = tangential velocity, i.e. tangential component of absolute
velocity V. (5)
Similarly from the outlet velocity triangle 𝒖𝟏 𝟐 −𝒖𝟐 𝟐
2nd component : is the change in
(6) 𝟐𝒈𝒄
centrifugal energy of the fluid in the motion. This is
From equations (2), due to the change in the radius of rotation of the
fluid. This causes a change in static head of the
fluid through the rotor.
From equations (2), (5) and (6) (E) =
𝑽𝒓𝟐 𝟐 −𝑽𝒓𝟏 𝟐
3rd component : is the change in
2𝑔𝑐
relative kinetic energy due to the change in relative
Alternate form of Euler velocity. This causes a change in static head of the
energy transfer equation (E) : = 𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 + 𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2 J
2𝑔𝑐
( ) (7)
kg
fluidGeneral
2.3 acrossexpression
the rotor.for degree of reaction (R):
A parameter is used to classify the turbomachines based on the
𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 + 𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 − 𝑉𝑟1 2 −𝑉𝑟2 2 J
= ( ) relative proportions of dynamic and static pressure changes.
2𝑔𝑐 kg
Components of energy transfer : There are 3 components in This parameter is known as degree of reaction and denoted by
energy transfer equation : R.
Degree of reaction(R): Degree of reaction or simply reaction is
(𝑽𝟏 𝟐 −𝑽𝟐 𝟐 )
1st component : is the change in absolute kinetic defined as “the ratio of static energy transfer due to the static
2𝑔𝑐
energy. Due to this, a change in the dynamic head or dynamic pressure change to the total energy transfer due to the total
pressure change in rotor.
pressure of the fluid takes place through the machine. The exit
velocity 𝑉2 i.e. exit K.E. is negligible in some turbomachines and Energy transfer due to the change of static pressure in the rotor
considerable in other turbomachines, particularly in power R=
Total energy transfer in the rotor
absorbing turbomachines like pumps and compressors. In power
Static head(Pressure)
absorbing turbomachines, energy is transferred from rotor to R=
fluid, therefore there is an increase in K.E. at the rotor exit. A Total head (Pressure)
diffuser converts this K.E. into static pressure rise.
 2.4 Utilization factor (Є):
2 1 2
𝑢1 2 − 𝑢2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 − 𝑉𝑟1 Question : Define utilization factor and derive an expression for
2𝑔𝑐
= 1 the same for a power developing turbomachines.
(𝑉1 2 − 𝑉2 2 ) + (𝑢1 2 − 𝑢2 2 ) + 𝑉𝑟2 2 − 𝑉𝑟1 2
2𝑔𝑐 Even for an ideal fluid, all the energy supplied at inlet of any
turbines cannot be converted into useful work due to finite
𝒖𝟏 𝟐 −𝒖𝟐 𝟐 + 𝑽𝒓𝟐 𝟐 −𝑽𝒓𝟏 𝟐 exit velocity or loss of velocity at the outlet of the turbine,
R = (8)
(𝑽𝟏 𝟐 −𝑽𝟐𝟐 ) +(𝒖𝟏 𝟐 −𝒖𝟐 𝟐 )+ 𝑽𝒓𝟐 𝟐 −𝑽𝒓𝟏 𝟐
which being wasted without use.
Definition: The ratio of ideal work to the energy supplied is
called as the diagram efficiency or utilization factor.
The energy available to the rotor is the sum of absolute K.E
at inlet and the energy available due to the pressure drop in
Then equation (8) becomes the rotor(due to the change in relative velocities of the fluid
and movement of the fluid.
(1)

2 2 2 𝑅 2 2
For ideal case , the energy utilized by the rotor in the absence
2 (9)
(𝑢1 − 𝑢2 ) − 𝑉𝑟1 − 𝑉𝑟2 = (𝑉1 − 𝑉2 ) of fluid friction is
1−𝑅

The value of degree reaction is may be any value like (2)

R = 0, R = - ve and R = + ve in a turbomachine.
From equations (1) and (2)

(3)
 1 2 2 General equation for degree of reaction for any turbine is
(𝑉1 −𝑉2 2 + (𝑢1 −𝑢2 2 )+ 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2
Є=
2𝑔𝑐 given as from equation (8)
1 2 2 𝑉22
2𝑔𝑐
(𝑉1 −𝑉2 2 + (𝑢1 −𝑢2 2 )+ 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2 +2 General equation for degree of reaction for any turbine is given as
𝑔𝑐
from equation (8)
𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2
R=
(𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 ) +(𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 )+ 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2

𝑢1 2 − 𝑢2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 − 𝑉𝑟1 2 = 𝑅 𝑉1 2 − 𝑉2 2 + (𝑢1 2 − 𝑢2 2 ) + 𝑉𝑟2 2 − 𝑉𝑟1 2

R
Since from equation (9) S= D
The velocity components or energy values in the above 1−R
equation are based on the ideal velocity diagram. If the 𝑅
numerator refers to the actual energy transferred to the (𝑢1 2 − 𝑢2 2 ) + 𝑉𝑟2 2 − 𝑉𝑟1 2 = (𝑉1 2 − 𝑉2 2 )
1−𝑅
rotor and the denominator referrers to the ideal energy
transfer, then resulting parameter is known as vane 𝑅
𝑢1 2 − 𝑢2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 − 𝑉𝑟1 2 = 𝑅 𝑉1 2 − 𝑉2 2 + (𝑉1 2 − 𝑉2 2 )
efficiency. Thus the vane efficiency is defined as the “ 1−𝑅
ratio of actual energy transfer to the ideal energy transfer 2 2 𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 −𝑅(𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 )+𝑅(𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 )
2
𝑢1 − 𝑢2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 − 𝑉𝑟1 =𝑅
across the rotor. (1−𝑅)

2.5 Relationship between Degree of reaction(R) and Utilization

factor(Є) : 𝑢1 2 − 𝑢2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 − 𝑉𝑟1 2 =
𝑅
(𝑉1 2 − 𝑉2 2
Question :Derive an expression relating utilization factor with 1−𝑅 (4)
the degree of reaction. Or, Show that utilization factor is given Also for utilization factor for any turbomachine is given as from
𝟐 𝟐
by Є =
𝐕𝟏 − 𝐕𝟐
, where R is the degree of reaction. For what equation (3)
𝐕𝟏 𝟐 −𝐑 𝐕𝟐 𝟐
value of R this relation is invalid? Why?
 (𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 + (𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 )+ 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2 2.6 Condition for maximum utilization factor(Є𝒎𝒂𝒙 ):
Є= (5) Question : In a turbomachine, prove that the maximum utilization
(𝑉1 2 + (𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 )+ 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2
𝟐𝚽 𝐂𝐎𝐒𝛂𝟏
factor is given by Є𝒎𝒂𝒙 = , where φ is speed ratio, R is
From equation (4) and (5) 𝟏+𝟐𝐑 𝚽 𝐂𝐎𝐒𝛂𝟏
degree of reaction and α1 is nozzle angle.
2 2 R 2 2
(V1 −V2 + (V1 −V2
1−R
Є= For maximum utilization:
R
(V1 2 + (V1 2 −V2 2
1−R • The value of V2 should be the minimum
Taking LCM on both numerator and denominator • From the velocity triangle, it is apparent that V2 is having minimum
value when it is axial or radial (i.e., V2=Vf2 ).
1−R V 2 1 − V 2 2 + R V1 2 − V 2 2 Then the velocity diagram of generalized turbomachine for maximum
Є=
1 − R V1 2 + R V12 − V2 2 utilization is as shown in figure .
Energy transfer of a generalized turbomachine is given by:
(V1 2 − V2 2 − R(V1 2 − V2 2 ) + R(V1 2 − V2 2 )
Є=
(V12 − R(V12 ) + R(V1 2 ) − R(V2 2 ) V1 2 −V2 2 + u1 2 −u2 2 + Vr2 2 −Vr1 2 J Vw1 u1 + Vw2 u2 J
E = =
2gc kg gc kg
After simplification Note: In some text books, the tangential components is denoted by
𝑉𝑢1 𝑎𝑡 𝑖𝑛𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑉𝑢2 𝑎𝑡 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑙𝑒𝑡.ie 𝑉𝑤1 𝑂𝑅 𝑉𝑢1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑉𝑤2 𝑂𝑅 𝑉𝑢2
𝐕𝟏 𝟐 − 𝐕𝟐 𝟐
Є= (5) 𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 + 𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 − 𝑉𝑟1 2 −𝑉𝑟2 2 𝐽 𝑉𝑢1 𝑢1 + 𝑉𝑢2 𝑢2 𝐽
𝐕𝟏 𝟐 − 𝐑 𝐕𝟐 𝟐 E = =
2𝑔𝑐 𝑘𝑔 𝑔𝑐 𝑘𝑔

The above equation is general utilization factor for any

type of turbine whether it is axial flow or radial type.
• Clearly, it is invalid when R=1, since ϵ=1.
• Therefore the above equation is valid for all values of
R in the range of 0˂ R<1.
Fig. Velocity diagram of generalized turbomachine for maximum utilization (Є)
 𝑢1
For maximum utilization 𝑉𝑢2 =0, then energy transfer equation becomes But blade speed ratio (Φ) =
𝑉1
𝑉𝑓2 2
𝐕𝟏 𝟐 −𝐕𝟐 𝟐 + 𝐮𝟏 𝟐 −𝐮𝟐 𝟐 − 𝐕𝐫𝟏 𝟐 −𝐕𝐫𝟐 𝟐 𝐕𝐮𝟏 𝐮𝟏 𝐉 = 1 − = 2 (1 − 𝑅 ) Φ cos 𝛼1
E = = (1) 𝑉1 2
𝟐𝐠 𝒄 𝒈𝒄 𝐤𝐠
𝑉𝑓2 2
From equation (9) = = 1 - 2 (1 − 𝑅 ) Φ cos 𝛼1
𝑉1 2 (2)
R
(u1 2 − u2 2 ) + Vr1 2 − Vr2 2 = 1−R (V1 2 − V2 2 ) V12 − V2 2
Utilization factor is given by: Є=
V1 2 − R V2 2
Then equation (1) becomes
For maximum utilization factor from the velocity triangle is given by :
1 R 2 Vf2 2
E = V1 2 − V2 2 + (V1 − V2 2 ) = 𝑉𝑢1 𝑢1 V1 2 − V𝑓2 2 V1 2 1 −
2 1−R V2 = Vf2 V1 2
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 = =
V1 2 − R V𝑓2 2 V1 2
V 2
1 − R f22
For maximum utilization 𝑉2 = 𝑉𝑓2 and from inlet velocity V1

diagram 𝑉𝑈1= 𝑉1 cos 𝛼1 From equation (2)

1 R 1− 1− 2 (1−𝑅 ) Φ cos 𝛼1
E = 2
V1 2 − V𝑓2 2 + 1−R (V1 2 − V𝑓2 2 ) = 𝑢1 𝑉1 cos 𝛼1 Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
1−R 1− 2 (1−𝑅 ) Φ cos 𝛼1

1−1+2 1−𝑅 Φ cos 𝛼1

𝟏 𝑽𝟏 𝟐 −𝑽𝒇𝟐 𝟐 −𝑹 (𝑽𝟏 𝟐 −𝑽𝒇𝟐 𝟐 ) +𝑹 ((𝑽𝟏 𝟐 −𝑽𝒇𝟐 𝟐 ) Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1−𝑅
= = 𝒖𝟏 𝑽𝟏 cos 𝜶𝟏 +2𝑅 1−𝑅 Φ cos 𝛼1
𝟐 (𝟏−𝑹)
1−𝑅 2Φ cos 𝛼1
𝑉1 2 −𝑉𝑓2 2
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1−𝑅 (1 + 2𝑅 Φ cos 𝛼1 )
= 2 (1−𝑅)
= 𝑢1 𝑉1 cos 𝛼1
2 Φ cos 𝛼1
𝑉𝑓2 2 Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
1 + 2 Φ R cos 𝛼1
(3)
𝑉1 2 1−
𝑉1 2
= = 𝑢1 𝑉1 cos 𝛼1
2 (1−𝑅)

𝑉𝑓2 2 𝑉𝑓2 2
This is equation for maximum utilization factor interms
1− 1− 𝑢
=
𝑉1 2
= 𝑢1
𝑉1
cos 𝛼1 =
𝑉1 2
=
𝑢1
cos 𝛼1 of speed ratio (Φ) = , 𝑁𝑜𝑧𝑧𝑙𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑙𝑒(𝛼1 )or jet
2 (1−𝑅) 𝑉1 2 2 (1−𝑅) 𝑉1 𝑉1
angle at inlet and degree of reaction(R) .
 α1 α2 β1 β2

𝑉𝑤1 𝑉𝑓1 𝑉𝑟1

𝑉𝑤2 𝑉𝑟2
𝑉𝑓2
α1 α2 β1 β2
𝑉2 𝑉1
𝑢1 𝑢2 𝑉1 𝑉2 𝑢2 𝑢1

𝑉𝑓1 𝑉𝑓2 𝑉𝑟1 𝑉𝑟2 𝑉𝑤1 𝑉𝑤2

α1 α2 β1 β2
2.5.2 Maximum utilization factor :
From eqn(4). it can be seen that utilization factor is
i) Velocity diagram for maximum utilization factor:
For maximum utilization, the value of 𝑉2 should be
• Absolute maximum and will be cqual to unity (Є𝒎𝒂𝒙= 1)
minimum and from the velocity triangle, it is apparent that ,
, when α1 = 0.
𝑉2 is having minimum value when it is axial. Thus general
• Then 𝑉2 = 𝑉1 sin α1 = 𝑉1 sin( 0) = 0 , results in zero-
velocity diagram for maximum utilization would appear as
shown in Fig. angle turbine.
We have the utilization factor, • This represents the ideal turbine but which is impossible
V12 − V2 2 to attain, because even α1 can be zero, finite velocity 𝑉2
Є=
V1 2 − R V2 2 , with an axial component is necessary to provide steady
From velocity △𝑙𝑒 OAC flow.
For Є𝑚𝑎𝑥, 𝑉2 = 𝑉1 sin α1 • However this shows that the nozzle angle should be as
small as possible.
V1 2 − V1 2 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 Fig Combined velocity diagram
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 = for maximum utilization factor
V1 2 − RV1 2 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1

V12 (1 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 )
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
V1 2(1 − R 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 )

V1 2 (1 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1)
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
V1 2 (1 − R 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1)

𝐶𝑜𝑠 2 𝛼1) Fig. Zero-angle turbine.

Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 = (4)
1 − R 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1
 ii) Condition for Є𝒎𝒂𝒙 in impulse turbine(R = 0): For Nozzle angle or jet angle = 𝟎 𝒅𝒆𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒆
𝑢 𝐶𝑜𝑠 (0) 1
For utilization factor = Φ = 𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜 = =
𝑉1 2 2
V1 2 − V2 2 For impulse turbine, nozzle angle should be very small.
Є=
V1 2 − R V2 2 Ex: If α1 = 200 , 𝐶𝑜𝑠 α1 = 𝐶𝑜𝑠 20𝑜 = 0.94 𝑎𝑛𝑑
𝑢 𝐶𝑜𝑠 α1
From velocity △𝑙𝑒 OAC 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜 Φ = =
𝑉1 2
= 0.47
For Є𝑚𝑎𝑥, 𝑉2 = 𝑉1 sin α1 The nozzle angle usually
between15𝑜 − 20𝑜 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑒𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑜𝑦𝑒𝑑.
V1 2 − V1 2 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 𝑢
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 = The factor is an useful parameter to judge the utilization
V1 2 − RV1 2 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 𝑉1

Fig. Combined Velocity (iii) Condition for Maximum Utilization in 50% Reaction
V1 2 (1 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 ) diagram for maximum
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 = Turbine (R =0.5): For 50% Reaction, we know that
V1 2 (1 − R 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 ) utilization. • 𝑉1 = 𝑉𝑟2 , 𝑉2 = 𝑉𝑟1 (ie., α1 = β2 ,α2 = β1
𝐶𝑜𝑠 2 𝛼1 ) • For maximum utilization, 𝑉2 , must be axial.
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 = With this condition, the velocity triangles are drawn for
1 − R 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 maximum utilization as shown in Fig. i) &(ii).
In impulse turbine : R = 0

Єmax = Cos 2 α1 (5)

From the fig, velocity triangle OBC and OCD are similar, hence BC
should be equal to u. Thus for Є𝒎𝒂𝒙 , the impulse stage must have
𝑢+𝑢 2𝑢 𝐶𝑜𝑠 α1 𝑢
𝐶𝑜𝑠 α1 = 𝑉1
= 𝑉1 2
=𝑉1

𝑢 𝐶𝑜𝑠 α1
But. 𝑉 = Φ = 𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜 =
1 2 Fig. Inlet & Outlet Velocity triangles for R = 50% and Є𝒎𝒂𝒙
 For utilization factor:
V12 − V2 2
Є=
V1 2 − R V2 2

From velocity △𝑙𝑒 OAB

For Є𝑚𝑎𝑥, 𝑉2 = 𝑉1 sin α1

V1 2 − V1 2 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
V1 2 − RV1 2 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1

V12 (1 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 )
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
V1 2(1 − R 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1 )

𝐶𝑜𝑠 2 𝛼1)
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
1 − R 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1

For R = 50% = 0.5

Fig. Variation of Є𝒎𝒂𝒙 with α𝟏 in an axial flow turbine stage
𝐶𝑜𝑠 2 𝛼1
Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 = (6)
1 − 0.5 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝛼1
The variation of Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 with 𝛼1 , using R as a parameter is exhibited
𝐴𝐵 𝑢 in figure , for all values of R, Є𝑚𝑎𝑥 is unity when 𝛼1 = 0 and
Also from triangle OAB, 𝐶𝑜𝑠 α1 = = becomes zero when 𝛼1 = 90𝑜 .
𝑂𝐴 𝑉1
𝑢
For 50% reaction turbine, Speed ratio = Φ = = 𝐶𝑜𝑠 α1
𝑉1
2.7 General Analysis of Turbines: i) Energy transfer for axial flow turbine is:
Power generating turbomachines are generally referred to as turbines.
Turbines may run with u1 = u2
• Compressible fluids like air(gas) or steam 𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 + 𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2 J
E = ( )
• Incompressible fluids like water. 2𝑔𝑐 kg

The main factor of interest in the power generating device is the work The equation reduces to
output. These machines are divided depending on the fluid flow
direction with respect to the rotor blades. 𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2 J
E = (kg)
i)Axial flow turbines ii)Radial flow turbines iii) Mixed flow turbines 2𝑔𝑐

2.7.1 Axial Flow Turbines: ii) Degree of reaction for axial flow turbine is:
Axial flow machine are those in which the fluid enters and leaves the u1 = u2
rotor at the same radius as shown in figure . 𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2
R=
(𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 ) +(𝑢1 2 −𝑢2 2 )+ 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2

The equation reduces to

𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2
R=
(𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 ) + 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2

iii) Utilization factor for axial flow turbine is:

u1 = u2
Hence, for axial flow turbines
(𝑽𝟏 𝟐 −𝑽𝟐 𝟐 + (𝒖𝟏 𝟐 −𝒖𝟐 𝟐 )+ 𝑽𝒓𝟐 𝟐 −𝑽𝒓𝟏 𝟐
Є=
• 𝑢1 = 𝑢2 = u. (𝑽𝟏 𝟐 + (𝒖𝟏 𝟐 −𝒖𝟐 𝟐 )+ 𝑽𝒓𝟐 𝟐 −𝑽𝒓𝟏 𝟐

• The flow velocity (𝑉𝑓 or 𝑉𝑎 ) is assumed to be constant (𝑉𝑓1 = 𝑉𝑓2 )

(𝑉1 2 −𝑉2 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2
from inlet to outlet. Axial flow turbines comprise the familiar steam Є=
(𝑉1 2 + 𝑉𝑟2 2 −𝑉𝑟1 2
turbines, gas turbines etc.
Question : Explain why turbines with degree of reaction R >1 2.7.2 Velocity Diagrams:
and R<0 are not in practical use? Question : Sketch velocity diagrams for R=0, R=0.5 and
i) Degree of reaction can be written as R=1 and label.
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑆𝑡𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 i) Velocity Diagrams: When R = 0
𝑅=
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 Answer: For impulse axial flow turbine, R=0,
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒
= • Thus Vr1 should be equal to Vr2 and
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑑𝑦𝑛𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒+ 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒
• If the blades are equiangular then, β1=β2 as shown in figure
(a).
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑆𝑡𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒
If R > 1 >1 • Here energy transfer is purely due to change in dynamic
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 pressure.
Change in static pressure > Change in total pressure
This is not practically possible , hence the turbines with
R > 1is not in practical use
ii) Also degree of reaction can be written as
Change in total pressure −Change in dynamic pressure
R=
Change in total pressure

If R ˂ 0 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 −𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑑𝑦𝑛𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒

˂ 0
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒
OR

𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 − 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑑𝑦𝑛𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 ˂ 0

OR Fig(a)
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 ˂ 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑑𝑦𝑛𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒

This is not practically possible. Therefore turbine with reaction R<0 is not
in practical use
ii) Velocity Diagrams: When R = 50% or R = 0.5 iii) Velocity Diagrams: When R = 100% or R = 1
For 50% reaction axial flow turbine, R=0.5, For fully (100%) reaction axial flow turbine, R=1,
• V1 should be equal to V2
• Also α 1= α2 as shown in figure (c).
• 𝑉1 2 − 𝑉2 2 = 𝑉𝑟2 2 − 𝑉𝑟1 2
Here stator acts purely as a directional device and doesn't take part
• if the stator and rotor blades are symmetric (two blades in the energy conversion process. The rotor acts both as the nozzle
are identical but orientations are different) then, α1=β2 and as the energy transfer device, so energy transfer is purely due to
and α2=β1 and change in static pressure.
• Also V1=Vr2 and V2=Vr1 as shown in figure (b).
Here energy transfer due to change in dynamic pressure is
equal to energy transfer due to change in static pressure.

Fig (b) Fig (c)

Problems: 1 Air enters in an axial flow turbine with a tangential Problem: 2 Combustion products approaches an axial flow turbine
component of the absolute velocity equal to 600 m/s in the direction of rotor with an absolute velocity of 550 m/s and a direction of 18𝑜
rotation. At the rotor exit, the tangential component of the absolute from the wheel tangent. The mass flow rate 60 kg/s. If the absolute
velocity is 100 m/s in a direction opposite to that of rotational speed. velocity at the rotor exit is axially directed. When the blade speed is
The tangential blade speed is 250 m/s. Evaluate (i) The change in total 300 m/s . find the power output and the degree of reaction.
enthalpy of air between the inlet and outlet of the rotor (ii) The power in 10 Marks
kW if the mass flow rate is 10 kg/s (iii) The change in total temperature
across the rotor. 10 Marks

u1 = u2= u = 250 m/s

△h=△E =E1- E2

△E =

Cp = dh/dt
Problem: 3 For centripetal turbine with guide blade angle
∝1 and radial blades at the inlet. The radial velocity is
constant and there Is no whirl velocity at discharge. Show
that the degree of reaction is 0.5 . Also derive an
expression for utilization factor in terms of ∝1 . 10 Marks
Problem:4 An inward flow radial reaction turbine has
radial discharge at outlet with outlet blade angle is 45𝑜 .
The radial component of Absolute velocity remains
constant throughout and equal to 2gH where g is the
acceleration due to gravity and H is the constant Head.
The blade speed at inlet is twice a that at outlet. Express
the energy transfer per unit mass and the degree of
reaction interns of ∝1 . Where ∝1 is the direction of the
absolute velocity at inlet with respect to the blade velocity
at inlet. At what value of ∝1 will be the degree Of
reaction is zero and unity ? What are the corresponding
values of energy transfer per unit mass? 12Marks
 Problem:5 The combustion products approach an axial flow turbine
rotor with An absolute velocity of 600 m/s and a direction of 20o
from the wheel Tangent. The mass flow rate is 40 kg/s. If the absolute
velocity at the Rotor exit is axially directed and if the wheel blade
speed is 280 m/s. Find the power output and also determine the
degree of reaction. 12 Marks
Problem:6 At a stage in a 50% reaction axial flow turbine running at
3000 rpm ,the blade mean diameter is 685 mm. If the maximum
utilization for The stage is 0.915 , calculate the inlet and outlet
absolute velocities for the rotor. Draw the velocity triangles and fine
power output for A flow rate of 15 kg/s. 10 Marks
Problem:7 The velocity of steam flow from a nozzle in Delaval
turbine in 1200 m/s , the nozzle angle being 22o. If the rotor
blades are equiangular and the rotor tangential speed is 400 m/s,
compute i) The blade angles ii) the tangential force on the
blade iii) The power output , assuming 𝑉𝑟1 = 𝑉𝑟2 . Find also the
utilization factor. 10Marks
Problem:7 At a stage of an axial flow impulse turbine, the
mean blade diameter Is 80cm and the speed is 3000rpm. The
absolute velocity of the fluid at inlet is 300m/s and is inclined
at 20o to the plane of the wheel. IF The utilization factor is 0.85
and the relative velocity at rotor exit is equal to that at inlet,
determine i) Inlet and exit blade angles
i) Power output for a mass flow rate of 1kg/s
ii) Axial thrust on the shaft. 12Marks
Problem: 8 An axial flow impulse turbine has a mean rotor
diameter of 55cm And runs at 3300rpm. The blade speed
ratio is 0.45 and the nozzle Angle at the rotor inlet is 20o .
The mass flow rate is 10kg/s. Determine The power output
and the axial thrust assuming that the rotor blades Are
equiangular 12Marks
Problem: 9 In a radial inward flow turbine, the runner outer
diameter is 75cm and the inner diameter is 50cm. The runner
speed is 400rpm. Water enters the runner at a velocity of 15m/s
at an angle of 15 o to Wheel tangent at inlet . The flow is radial
at exit with a velocity of 5m/s. Find the blade angles at inlet and
exit. Also determine the power output for a flow rate of 1.5
m3 /s, degree of reaction and utilization factor.
10Marks
Problem: 10 A single stage axial blower with no inlet guide vanes
is running At 3600rpm. The mean diameter of the rotor is 16cm
and the Mass flow rate of air through the blower is 0.45kg/s. In
the rotor the air is turned such that the absolute velocity of air at
exit makes Angle of 20o with respect to the axis . Assuming that
the axial component of Fluid velocity remains constant, determine
power input and degree of reaction .Assume that density of air is
constant at 1.185 kg/m3 and the area of flow is 0.02 𝑚3 . 10Marks
Problem: 11 In a turbine stage with 50% reaction the
tangential blade speed is 98.5 m/s . The steam velocity at the
nozzle exit is 155m/s and the nozzle angle is 18o . Assuming
symmetric inlet and outlet velocity triangles . Compute the
inlet blade angle for the rotor and power developed by the
stage. Assuming a steam flow rate of 10kg/s. Find also
utilization factor . 10Marks
Problem: 12 The following data refer to a 50% degree of
reaction axial flow turbomachine: Inlet fluid velocity =
230m/s, Inlet rotor angle = 60𝑜 , Inlet guide blade angle
=30𝑜 , Outlet rotor angle = 25𝑜 . Find the utilization factor ,
axial thrust and the power output per unit mass flow.
10Marks
Problem: 13 A jet of water having a velocity of 36m/s impinges
on a series of vanes moving with a velocity of 18m/s . The jet
makes an angle of 28𝑜 to the direction of motion of vanes
when entering and leaves at an angle of 125𝑜 . With the help of
velocity triangles at inlet and outlet, determine: i) The angles
of vane tips so that water enters and leaves with ought shock
ii) The work done per kg of water entering the turbine iii)
Efficiency of the turbine. 10Marks
Problem: 14 At a stage of an impulse turbine , the mean blade
diameter is 75cm, its rotational speed being 2800rpm. The
absolute velocity of fluid discharging from a nozzle inclined at
18o to the plane of the wheel is 280m/s . If the utilization
factor is 0.88 and the relative velocity at the rotor exit is
equals that at the inlet , draw velocity diagram and determine
the inlet and exit blade angles of the rotor . Also calculate the
power output axial thrust on the shaft for a mass flow rate of
1kg/s. 10Marks
Problem: 15 The mean rotor blade speed of an axial flow
turbine stage with 50% reaction is 210m/s. Steam emerges
from the nozzle inclined at 28o to the plane of the wheel with
axial component equal to the blade speed. Assuming
symmetric inlet and outlet velocity triangles . Determine the
rotor blade angles and utilization factor also determine the
degree of reaction to make the utilization maximum if the
axial velocity, blade speed and nozzle angle remains the
same. 10Marks
 𝒖𝟏 𝟐 −𝒖𝟐 𝟐 + 𝑽𝒓𝟐 𝟐 −𝑽𝒓𝟏 𝟐
R =
2𝑔𝑐 𝑊𝐷

Static head, Dynamic head and Total head illustration