What are air ejectors on the condenser of a steam turbine used for?

Air ejectors on the condenser of a steam turbine serve the crucial function of removing air and noncondensable gases from the condenser system. This process is vital for maintaining the efficiency of the steam turbine operation.

When steam condenses, it ideally turns into water, creating a vacuum in the condenser. However, if air or noncondensable gases enter this system, they can occupy space that should be available for steam and impede the vacuum’s effectiveness. This can lead to a reduction in thermal efficiency, as the presence of noncondensable gases raises the pressure in the condenser, which negatively affects the overall performance of the turbine.

By using air ejectors, the system can efficiently expel any air or noncondensable gases, thereby sustaining an optimal vacuum level in the condenser. This not only enhances the overall operational efficiency but also ensures that the steam turbine can function at its best performance levels.