A nuclear power reactor has pressurized water at 300C. (Higher temperatures are theoretically possible but practically not,

Question:

A nuclear power reactor has pressurized water at 300°C. (Higher temperatures are theoretically possible but practically not, due to limitations with materials used in the reactor.) Heat transfer from this water is a complex process (see Figure 15.22). Steam, produced in the steam generator, is used to drive the turbine-generators. Eventually the steam is condensed to water at 27°C and then heated again to start the cycle over. Calculate the maximum theoretical efficiency for a heat engine operating between these two temperatures.

Strategy

Since temperatures are given for the hot and cold reservoirs of this heat engine, Effc = 1- Tc Th can be used to calculate the Carnot (maximum theoretical) efficiency. Those temperatures must first be converted to kelvins. Pressure vessel Steel containment Control rods Core Containment structure Steam Steam line Steam generator