ABSTRACT
Steam turbines are used extensively in the power generation industry as prime movers for generators. They are also used for mechanical drive application in petrochemical and other industries where they power centrifugal pumps, compressors, blowers, and other machines. In addition, they continue to be used for shipboard propulsion. Sizes range from as low as 0.75 kW for some mechanical drive applications to as high as 1,500 MW for electric generator drives in large nuclear power plants [1]. Steam turbines are particularly well suited for continuous operation, and in many cases are operated for years without shutting down.
