Difference between Impulse and Reaction Turbine

Today we will discuss about the main difference between impulse and reaction turbine. In my last post, we have learned about the main types of turbine. We know that turbines are widely used in power generation industries. Selection of proper hydraulic turbine is among the most important factor affecting the economic viability of the hydraulic project.

The term impulse and reaction denote the basic type of turbine. The basic and main difference between impulse and reaction turbine is that there is pressure change in the fluid as it passes through runner of reaction turbine while in impulse turbine there is no pressure change in the runner. In the impulse turbine first, all pressure energy of water converts into the kinetic energy through a nozzle and generate a high-speed jet of water.  This water jet strikes the blade of the turbine and rotates it. In the reaction turbine, there is a pressure change of water when it passes through the rotor of the turbine. So it uses kinetic energy as well as pressure energy to rotate the turbine. Due to this, it is known as a reaction turbine.

Difference between Impulse and Reaction Turbine:

Impulse Turbine	Reaction Turbine
1.  In an impulse turbine, only kinetic energy is used to rotate the turbine.	1. In a reaction turbine, both kinetic and pressure energy is used to rotate the turbine.
2. In this turbine, water flows through the nozzle and strike the blades of the turbine.	2. In this turbine, water is guided by the guide blades to flow over the turbine.
3. All pressure energy of water converted into kinetic energy before striking the vanes.	3. In the reaction turbine, there is no change in pressure energy of water before striking.
4. The pressure of the water remains unchanged and is equal to atmospheric pressure during the process.	4. The pressure of water is reducing after passing through vanes.
5. Water may admit over a part of the circumference or over the whole circumference of the wheel of the turbine.	5. Water may admit over a part of the circumference or over the whole circumference of the wheel of the turbine.
6. In an impulse, the turbine casing has no hydraulic function to perform because the jet is at atmospheric pressure. This casing serves only to prevent splashing of water.	6. Casing is absolutely necessary because the pressure at the inlet of the turbine is much higher than the pressure at the outlet. It is sealed from atmospheric pressure.
7. This turbine is most suitable for large head and lowers flow rate. Pelton wheel is the example of this turbine.	7. This turbine is best suited for higher flow rate and lower head situation.

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