POWER PLANT ENGINEERING (Professional Elective – III) B.Tech. IV Year I Sem. JNTUH R-18

Unit I: Introduction and Steam Power Plants

• Explain the concept of a Rankine cycle and analyze its efficiency based on various influencing factors.

• Compare and contrast different types of boilers (water tube, fire tube, high pressure) including their working principles and efficiencies.

• Analyze the flow of steam through nozzles and calculate the discharge velocity and exit conditions.

• Evaluate the performance of steam condensers based on heat transfer coefficient and vacuum level.

• Analyze the working principle of a steam turbine and its key components (blades, rotor, casing).

• Calculate the performance parameters of a turbine (steam consumption, work output) and discuss factors affecting its efficiency.

Unit II: Internal Combustion Engine Plants

• Compare and contrast the working principles of different types of internal combustion engines (diesel, gasoline) used in power plants.

• Analyze the plant layout of a diesel power plant and the functions of its auxiliary systems (fuel supply, air starting, cooling).

• Explain the concept of supercharging in diesel engines and its impact on power output and efficiency.

• Introduce the working principle of open and closed cycle gas turbines and compare their advantages and limitations.

• Analyze the operation of a combined cycle power plant and its potential for high efficiency.

Unit III: Hydro Electric Power Plants

• Explain the hydrological cycle and its influence on water resource availability for hydropower generation.

• Differentiate between different types of dams and spillways based on their design and function.

• Describe the typical layout of a hydro power plant and the role of its auxiliary systems (penstocks, turbines, governors).

• Discuss the operation of pumped storage hydro plants and their role in energy storage and grid stability.

Unit IV: Nuclear Power Plants

• Explain the difference between nuclear fuel, fertile material, and fissionable isotopes in nuclear reactors.

• Compare and contrast the working principles of different types of nuclear reactors (PWR, BWR, etc.).

• Discuss the importance of radiation safety and shielding in nuclear power plants and the management of radioactive waste.

• Analyze the potential environmental impact of nuclear power generation and measures to mitigate its risks.

Unit V: Power Plant Economics and Environmental Considerations

• Calculate capital cost, operating cost, and various load factors (connected load, demand factor, etc.) for a power plant.

• Analyze the economic feasibility of different power plant options based on cost-benefit analysis and payback period.

• Discuss the environmental impact of various power plant types (emissions, pollution) and regulations for controlling emissions.

• Evaluate the use of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal for power generation and their integration with traditional power systems.

Bonus Questions:

• Discuss the advancements in power plant technology, such as supercritical boilers and high-efficiency gas turbines.

• Analyze the role of smart grids and energy storage in the future of power generation and distribution.

• Evaluate the economic and environmental implications of decommissioning older power plants.