Question 242Steam Plants - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is D) Low pressure turbine exhaust steam enthalpy value increases. Air entry into the main condenser reduces the efficiency of the steam cycle because the air mixes with the steam, increasing the low pressure turbine exhaust steam enthalpy value. This means the steam contains more energy when it exits the low pressure turbine, resulting in less energy being extracted from the steam to do useful work. This decreases the overall efficiency of the steam cycle. The other answer choices are incorrect because A) the air mixing with the steam does not directly affect the condensate, B) condensate subcooling is not impacted, and C) the steam flow rate through the main turbine would not increase.