Question: Why and where a condenser is installed in a steam power station?
Answer: A condenser is installed next to turbine exhaust. Exhaust steam from turbine enters the condenser where the condensate is recovered and is used as boiler water.
Schematic diagram of the condenser
Advantages of condenser
- It recovers re-useable condensate which is fed to boiler water
- The efficiency of plant increases
Types of condensers
Jet condenser in which cooling water and exhaust steam are mixed together.
Surface condenser in which cooling water and exhaust steam are not directly connected.