Thermal power generation is a method of producing electricity by extracting heat energy from burning fuel and utilizing that heat.
It is widely used around the world and is one of the primary methods of electricity generation.
The main fuels used include coal, oil, and natural gas.
1. Mechanism of Thermal Power Generation
- Fuel Combustion
Fuels such as coal, natural gas, and oil are burned in a boiler to generate high-temperature heat energy. - Heating Water to Produce Steam
The heat from combustion is used to heat water, creating high-pressure steam. - Rotating the Turbine with Steam
The high-temperature, high-pressure steam rotates the turbine, generating mechanical energy. - Electricity Generation
The rotating turbine drives a generator to produce electricity. - Cooling and Reusing Steam
After passing through the turbine, the steam is cooled back into water and reheated to be reused as steam.
2. Types of Thermal Power Generation
Thermal power generation comes in several types. The primary methods are classified based on the type of fossil fuel used.
2-1. Coal-Fired Power Generation
Electricity is generated by burning coal.
This method has been used for a long time and ensures stable energy supply. However, it emits large amounts of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and air pollutants like sulfur oxides (SOx), posing environmental challenges.
2-2. Oil-Fired Power Generation
Electricity is generated by burning oil.
Due to the high cost of oil, this method is now primarily used as a backup power source.
2-3. Natural Gas-Fired Power Generation
This method uses the heat from burning natural gas to drive a gas turbine and utilizes the remaining heat to power a steam turbine.
It is highly efficient in combustion and emits less CO2 compared to coal.
3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Thermal Power Generation
Advantages:
- Stable Power Supply
Thermal power generation is unaffected by weather conditions and can generate electricity consistently 24/7. - Established Technology and Infrastructure
With a long history, thermal power generation is based on established technology and can utilize existing infrastructure.
Disadvantages:
- Environmental Impact
Burning fuel releases greenhouse gases and air pollutants, contributing to global warming and environmental degradation. - Resource Depletion
Since fossil fuels are used, there are concerns about the depletion of finite resources.
Thermal power generation plays a crucial role in energy supply, but it also raises concerns about environmental impacts and resource sustainability. As a result, efforts are being made to introduce renewable energy and clean power generation technologies.
Note:
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