Blades or Buckets:
Design: The wheel is typically equipped with a series of blades or buckets arranged around its circumference.
Function: These blades are designed to convert the kinetic energy of a fluid (such as steam, gas, or air) into mechanical energy. As the fluid passes through or over the blades, it causes the wheel to spin.
Rotor:
Design: The rotor is the central part of the turbine wheel to which the blades are attached. It is usually a disk or a drum.
Function: The rotor transfers the rotational energy generated by the blades to the turbine shaft, which can then be used to perform work, such as generating electricity.
Casing:
Design: The turbine wheel is often enclosed within a casing that directs the flow of fluid onto the blades.
Function: The casing ensures that the fluid flow is properly channeled to maximize the efficiency of energy transfer.
Types of Turbine Wheels
Impulse Turbine Wheels:
Design: In impulse turbines, the fluid jets are directed at the blades, causing the wheel to rotate. The pressure drop of the fluid occurs entirely at the nozzles.
Examples: Pelton wheels are a common type of impulse turbine used in hydroelectric power plants.
Reaction Turbine Wheels:
Design: In reaction turbines, the fluid accelerates through both the stationary and rotating blades, causing a pressure drop across the turbine.
Examples: Francis and Kaplan turbines are examples of reaction turbines used in hydroelectric power plants.
Gas and Steam Turbine Wheels:
Design: In gas and steam turbines, the blades are designed to handle high temperatures and pressures. They are often made from advanced materials and may include cooling mechanisms.
Function: These wheels convert the energy from high-pressure, high-temperature steam or gas into rotational motion to drive electrical generators or mechanical equipment.
Materials and Manufacturing
Materials: Turbine wheels are typically made from high-strength materials such as stainless steel, titanium, or nickel-based alloys to withstand high stress, temperature, and corrosion.
Manufacturing: Precision manufacturing processes such as casting, forging, and machining are used to produce turbine wheels, ensuring they meet stringent performance and safety standards.
Applications
Power Generation:
Steam Turbines: Used in thermal power plants.
Gas Turbines: Used in combined-cycle power plants and jet engines.
Aerospace:
Jet Engines: Turbine wheels are a crucial part of the engine's compressor and turbine stages.
Industrial:
Mechanical Drives: Used in various industrial applications requiring rotary motion.
