Abstract

The results of numerical simulations to predict the performance of different steam models have been presented. All of the considered models of steam condensation have been validated on the base of benchmark experiment employing expansion in nozzle and next on the low pressure part of the steam turbine stage. For numerical analysis three models have been finally used - the ideal steam model without condensation, equilibrium steam model and a nonequilibrium steam model. It was confirmed that only the inclusion of nonequilibrium effects in the computations can lead to a proper prediction of the condensation phenomena in the test nozzle. However, the basic characteristics of the low-pressure turbine can be succefully estimated using a simple ideal steam or the equilibrium condensation model.