Power Generation/Introduction/Intro 2
Energy is defined as the ability to do work. We can simplify the forms in which we encounter energy in our daily life into three forms as follows:
1 Mechanical energy (Measured in N.m → Newton-meter = Joule):
- Ability to move things.
2 Thermal energy (Measured in Cal or KCal → Calorie or Kilocalorie):
- Ability to heat things.
3 Electrical energy (Measured in Watt.sec → Watt-second):
- Ability to use electricity to do work.
All the above forms of energy are interchangable since they can be used to do work and thus can be expressed using the same unit of measurement. The Joule!. The following table summarizes the relationship among energy units
Energy form Comparison | Unit | Calorie equivelence | Joule equivelence |
---|---|---|---|
Heat→Mech | . | 1 calorie | 4.18 Joules |
Heat→Mech | 1 C.H.U | 453.6 calories | 1896 Joules |
Heat→Mech | 1 B.TH.U | 252 calorie | 1053 Joules |
Elec→Mech | 1 Watt.sec | 0.24 calories | 1 Joule |
Elec→Mech | 1 Kwh | 860 KCal | Joules |
Calorific value of fuels
The following list of external sites shows a comparison of various types of common fuels and their calorific value:
Comparison of Solid fuels v/s Liquid fuels
Solid Fuels | Liquid Fuels |
---|---|
Cheap | Expensive |
Minimal odours | unpleasant odours |
Requires simple burners | requires sophisticated burners |
No climate constraints | Cold climates need regulation |