Power Generation Flashcards
State the law of physics that conserns energy.
Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred from one form to another.
How much does the gearbox convert the rotational speed of the mainshaft?
30-60 RPM to 1000-1800 RPM
What RPM is required for the generation of electricity in most generators?
1000-1800 RPM
In smaller turbines where is the generator located?
On the ground
What is the housing of a wind turbine called?
Nacelle
Where is the generator for bigger wind turbines located?
In the nacelle
Outline the main energy changes in large scale fossil fuel electrictity generation.
Fossil Fuel. (Contails chemical energy) | V Combustion of fossil fuel. (Chemical energy --> thermal energy) | V Water heated, producting steam. (Steam has thermal energy so it rises) | V Turbine. (Thermal energy of steam --> KE of turbine) | V Generator. (KE of turbine --> eletrical energy)
Describe how electricity is generated and distributed (7 steps).
- Coal is brought to the Power Plant and burnt in the Boiler.
- Water above the Boiler turns into steam.
- The steam rises, and as it rises it turns a turbine.
- The KE ef the turbine is turned into eletrical energy by a Generator.
- The first sub-station steps up the voltage and lowers the current.
- Power lines carry electricity closer to houses & the next sub station.
- The second substation steps down the voltage and decreases the current .
What do Step up transformers do? Give units.
Step up transformers step up the Voltage from 22,000 V to 275,000 V. This reduces energy losses when power is transmitted through cables on the national grid.
What do step down transformers do? Give Units.
Step down transformers steps down the voltage to 33,000 for factories, 11,000 for towns, and 230 for homes.
Why will demand for electricity increase?
Increasing population and eletric cars.
Where is the best place in europe for Wind power?
- Ireland
- UK
- Norway
Where is the best place im europe for Solar Power?
- Spain
- Italy
- Greece
Where is the best place in europe for Hydroelectric Power?
- Sweden
- Denmark
- Norway
How would a smart grid be good for customers?
Reduced need for expensive “peak fossil fuel power stations” as energy can be imported from more cost effective renewable energy production in member states.
