Steam Turbines: Understanding the Role of Carbon Glands

What lubricates carbon glands on steam turbines?

On steam turbines, carbon glands are:

a. Self-lubricating

b. Lubricated by governor oil

c. Lubricated by the seal oil pump

d. Lubricated by the main oil pump

Final Answer:

On steam turbines, carbon glands are lubricated by the seal oil pump. Thus, the correct answer is c. Lubricated by the seal oil pump.

Explanation:

Carbon glands play a crucial role in steam turbines as they serve as seals to prevent the leakage of steam or oil from the turbine's housing. Proper lubrication of these glands is essential to maintain their effectiveness and prevent excess wear. In steam turbine systems, carbon glands are typically lubricated by the seal oil pump, which provides the necessary oil to create a seal between the rotating and stationary parts, ensuring airtightness and preventing the escape of oil or steam.

Option (a) "self-lubricating" is not a common characteristic of carbon glands in steam turbines. Options (b) and (d) refer to governor oil and main oil pump, which are essential for lubricating other parts of the turbine but are not typically responsible for lubricating carbon glands. It's important to understand the specific roles of different lubrication systems in steam turbine operation to ensure their proper function and longevity.

Thus, the correct answer is c. Lubricated by the seal oil pump.