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Subject Code : 17324 (EPG) Model Answer Page No :

Important Instructions to examiners:

1) The answers should be examined by key words and not as word-to-word as given in the model answer
scheme.
2) The model answer and the answer written by candidate may vary but the examiner may try to assess the
understanding level of the candidate.
3) The language errors such as grammatical, spelling errors should not be given importance (Not applicable
for subject English and Communication Skills).
4) While assessing figures, examiner may give credit for principal components indicated in the figure. The
figures drawn by candidate and model answer may vary. The examiner may give credit for any equivalent
figure/figures drawn.
5) Credits may be given step wise for numerical problems. In some cases, the assumed constant values may
(as long as the
assumptions are not incorrect).
6) In case of some questions credit may be given by judgment on part of examiner of relevant answer based
on candida
7) For programming language papers, credit may be given to any other program based on equivalent
concept
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Subject Code : 17324 (EPG) Model Answer Page No :

1 Attempt any ten of the following: 20

1 a) State the importance of electrical power.
Ans:
Importance of Electrical Power:
1) Electrical energy is the basic necessity for domestic, commercial, industrial,
agricultural consumers, transport (electric trains), battery operated vehicles
etc. Any two
2) Electricity is also basic necessity for economic development of a country. In points
fact, advanced country is measured by the index per capital consumption of = 2 marks
electricity. If it is more, the country is said to be developed and advanced.
3) Electricity is used for various purposes such as,
i) Lighting, heating, cooling and other domestic appliances
ii) Street lighting, flood lighting, office building lighting and powering
to PCs etc.
iii) Irrigation purpose, operating cold storage, for various agriculture
products.
4) Running motors, furnaces of various kinds in industry, running locomotives
(electric train)
1 b) List the renewable energy sources.
Ans:
Renewable Energy Sources:
1) Solar energy
2) Wind energy ½ mark for
3) Hydro energy each of any
4) Ocean energy: four
(i) Ocean tidal energy = 2 marks
(ii) Ocean wave energy
(iii) Ocean thermal energy
5) Bio energy:
(i) Bio-fuels
(ii) Bio-mass
(iii) Bio-gas
6) Geothermal energy
7) Fuel cells
1 c) What is captive power plant?
Ans:
Captive Power Plant:
Captive power generation plant set up by any person or by any co-operative society 2 marks for
or association of persons or by industry or group of industries to generate electricity correct
primarily for his own use & sell excess power to state electricity board is known as answer
captive power generation.
1 d) List any two hydro power plants in Maharashtra with their generating capacity.
Ans:
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Hydro Power Plants in Maharashtra:

Sr. No. Name / Location Capacity
1 Koyana 1960 MW ½ mark for
2 Mulshi Dam 150 MW name/locati
3 Jayakwadi 12 MW on & ½
4 Chandoli (Warana) 16 MW mark for
5 Ujani 12 MW capacity
6 Bhira Tail Race 80 MW = 1 mark for
7 Veer 9 MW each of any
8 Bhatghar 16 MW two
9 Vaitarana Dam 1.5 MW = 2 marks
10 Tillari 60 MW
11 Eldary 22.5 MW
12 Radhanagri 4.8 MW
13 Paitan 12 MW
14 Pawana 10 MW
15 Panshet 8 MW
16 Varasgoan 8 MW
17 Kanher 4 MW
18 Bhatsa 15 MW
19 Dhom 2 MW
20 Manikdoh 6 MW
21 Yeoteshwar 0.075 MW
22 Dimbhe 5 MW
23 Surya 6 MW
24 Surya R.B 0.75 MW
25 Terwabnedhe 0.2 MW
26 Dudhgaon 24 MW
27 Bhandara 34 MW
28 Pench project 53 MW
29 Bhivapuri (TATA) 72 MW
30 Khopoli (TATA) 72 MW
31 Bhira (TATA) 150 MW
1 e) What is pulverized fuel? State any two advantages.
Ans:
Pulverized fuel:
Pulverized fuel (PF) is coal, or sometimes hard pitch obtained from the 1 mark for
distillation of coal tars, which has been ground into small particles. The finely- definition
ground fuel is burned at a nozzle or jet in a similar way to gas or liquid fuel.
Advantages of Pulverized fuel:
i) Cheaper and lower grade fuels can be burned as PF. 1 mark
ii) The burners readily respond to load changes. (any two
iii) Burning losses are practically eliminated. advantages
iv) Automatic control can be used.
v) Very high air pre-heat temperatures can be used.
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vi) Steam output is higher than when burning solid fuel on grates.
1 f) What are the various sources of energy?
Ans:
Various sources of energy:
i)The Sun
ii)The Wind ½ mark for
iii)Ocean tides and waves each of any
iv)Terrestrial Heat four sources
v)Water = 2 marks
vi)Fuels
vii) Radio- active Elements.
1 g) State any two disadvantages of thermal power station
Ans:
Disadvantages of thermal power station:
i) High maintenance and operating costs.
ii) It pollutes the atmosphere due to the production of large amount of smoke 1 mark for
and fumes. each of any
iii) Disposal of ash is quite difficult. two
iv) Requires huge quantity of water. = 2 marks
v) Handling of coal is difficult. .
vi) Costlier in running cost as compared to hydroelectric plant.
1 h) State the function of condenser.
Ans:
Function of Condenser:
After expansion through the prime mover, the steam passes through the condenser 2 marks for
which condenses the exhaust steam and also removes air and other non- correct
condensable gases. The recovery of exhaust steam in the condenser reduces the answer.
make- up feed water that must be added to the system.
1 i) Define Firm power and connected load.
Ans:
(i) Firm power:
It is the power which should always be available even under emergency 1 mark for
conditions. each
(ii) Connected load: definition
The connected load of a consumer is the sum of continuous rating of all
equipment of the consumer connected to supply system which is in use or not
in use.
1 j) Name any four applications of diesel power plants.
Ans:
Applications of Diesel Power Plants: ½ mark for
i)Hospitals. each of any
ii)Telephone exchanges. four sources
iii)Radio stations and cinemas. = 2 marks
iv)Used to supply peak loads for small duration or for seasonal loads.
v)Used in remote places where supply from grid is not available.
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vi)Used in transportation systems such as railroads, ships, airplanes, automobiles.

1 k) State four nuclear power plants in India.
Ans:
Nuclear power plants in India:
Sr.No. Name Location State Capacity (MW) ½ mark for
1 Tarapur Atomic Tarapur Maharashtra 1400 each of any
power station (APS) four power
2 Madras APS Kalpakkam Tamilnadu 440 plant
3 Kaiga APS Kaiga Karnataka 660 = 2 marks
4 Kakrapur APS Surat Gujrat 1840 (Location,
6 Kundankulam APS Kundankul Tamilnadu 4000 state,
am capacity
7 Narora APS Narora U.P. 440 optional i.e
8 Rajasthan APS Pawatbhata Rajasthan 1180 no marks)
1 l) List any four electrical equipment used in hydroelectric power plant.
Ans:
Electrical equipment used in hydroelectric power plant:
i)Generator ½ mark for
ii)Power transformers each of any
iii)Circuit breakers four
iv)Bus equipment
v)Dis-connectors(Isolators) = 2 marks
vi)Power cables
1 m) List the main parts of diesel electric power plant.
Ans:
Main parts of Diesel Electric Power Plant:
i) Diesel Engine
ii) Air Intake (Air filters, ducts, Supercharger) ½ mark for
iii) Engine fuel system(Fuel storage tanks, fuel storage pumps, Heaters) each of any
iv) Engine exhaust system(Silencers, connecting ducts) four parts
v) Engine cooling system(Cooling pumps, cooling towers or spray ponds) = 2 marks
vi) Engine lubricating oil system(Lubricating oil pumps, Oil tank filters,
coolers, Purifiers)
vii) Engine starting(Battery, Starter, Compressed air supply)
viii) Diesel Engine Generator (Alternator).
1 n) Draw the diagram of solar energy.
Ans: 2 marks for
neat labeled
diagram.

1 mark for
partially
labeled
diagram.
Or equivalent diagram.
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Subject Code : 17324 (EPG) Model Answer Page No :

2 Attempt any four of the following: 16

2 a) Define (a) Thermal efficiency (b) Calorific value
Ans:
(a) Thermal efficiency:
Thermal efficiency is defined as the ratio of heat equivalent of mechanical
2 marks
energy transmitted to the turbine shaft to the heat of combustion of coal.

(b) Calorific value:

The amount of heat released by a unit weight or unit volume of a substance
during complete combustion. 2 marks
OR
The quantity of heat produced by the complete combustion of a given mass
of a fuel, usually expressed in joules per kilogram.
2 b) State any eight advantages of nuclear power station.
Ans:
Advantages of Nuclear Power Station:
1) Fuel requirement for generating a given amount of electrical energy is very
small as compared to others.
2) It is efficient when operated at rated capacity. ½ mark for
3) They reduce the demand for coal, gas and oil. each of any
4) Fuel requirement is only in kilograms. Hence, there is no problem for eight
transportation, storage etc. advantages
5) It requires less area as compared to any other plant of the same capacity. = 2 marks
6) The running costs are less.
7) For large capacity, nuclear power plants are more economical.
8) The cost per unit decreases when power generated is in large amount.
9) Output control is extremely flexible these are not affected by adverse weather
conditions.
10) There are large deposits of nuclear fuels available all over the world, therefore
such plants can ensure continued supply of electrical energy for thousands of
year.
11) It ensures reliability of operations.
12) Operation is clean, no ash fumes etc.
2 c) Explain the basic components of a wind energy conversion system.
Ans:
Basic components of a wind energy conversion system:
1) Rotor /Blade/Aero-turbine:
Blade extracts significant power from the wind. They convert the force (K.E.) of
the wind into the rotary motion to generate useful mechanical power.
2) Hub:
Hub of the wind turbine is that component which connects the blades to the main
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shaft and ultimately to the rest of drive train. Hubs are generally made up of steel.
3) Main Shaft (Low speed shaft):
It is provided for transfer of torque from the rotor blade to the rest of the drive train.
It also supports weight of rotor. Speed of the shaft is low, is about 30 to 60 rotations
per minute.
4) High speed shaft:
It is connected to generator via-gearbox. Speed of the wind turbine is low; gearing
arrangement increases the speed of rotation to the level as per design. e.g. 1500 rpm ½ mark for
for 50 Hz frequency and 1800 rpm for 60 Hz frequency necessary to generate any 8
electricity with the help of generator. Gear box is one of the heaviest and most components
expensive components in wind turbine. with
5) Coupling: function
Coupling are used to connect shaft together = 4 marks
Between main shaft and gear box
Between gear box output and the generator.
6) Brakes:
The brake is fitted to stop the wind turbine. By applying brake when dangerously
strong wind are approaching i.e. when wind speed exceeds 55-65 miles per hour,
the wind turbine is stopped to avoid damage. In case of emergency also it is used to
stop the rotation of turbine. To take down the turbine for maintenance, brakes are
applied to stop it.
7) Yaw Controller:
It brings the blades towards the face into the wind direction i.e. it detects the
direction of wind. It performs the task of orienting the rotor in the direction of
wind.
8) Pitch Controller:
The pitch controller adjust automatically the pitch of each blade i.e. blade can be
rotate to increases efficiency in low wind and to decrease in very strong winds (to
protect the wind turbine).
9) Electrical Generator:
Function of generator is to convert mechanical energy produced by wind turbine
into electrical energy.
10) Anemometer:
It is a wind speed sensor with digital display, used in areas where AC power is not
available. It monitors wind speed and store max and average value.
11) Controller:
Controller takes data from anemometer (which measures the wind velocity).
The controller sends: Wind direction & wind speed
The controller protect wind turbine from abnormal wind conditions, excessive
temperature rise of generator, electrical fault etc.
12) Nacelle:
Nacelle cover provides weather protection for the principle components of the wind
turbine. It is structure that houses all of the generating components like-gearbox,
rotor shaft and brake assembly etc.
13) Tower:
A tower is needed to elevate the blades to where the wind is stronger and smoother
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Towers support to raise the main part of the turbine up in the air.
2 d) Why it is necessary to interconnect generating systems? State any four advantages.
Ans:
Necessity of interconnected generating systems:
i) There is continuously varying demand, so exchange of peak load is possible. 2 marks for
ii) It can improve stability in each system by balancing generation and load in the necessity
shortfall period.
iii) It has environment friendly nature as the bulk amount of heat can be
minimized.
Advantages of interconnected Systems:
i) Reduced Overall installed capacity: Interconnected power systems reduce
the overall requirement of installed capacity for a given load area. With
interconnection between power systems, peak demand in an area is meet by
importing power from neighboring area. Thus, it also reduces investment and
fulfills the peak demand. 2 marks for
ii) Better Utilization Hydro Power: In combined power system, hydro power any four
can be utilized in more effective way. During rainy season, hydro power plant advantages.
can be utilized, while during draught periods, steam power plant can be used as
base load plant.
iii) Reliability of Supply: The reliability of steam power plants depends upon the
coal supply and that of hydro power plant depends upon the stream flow. Due
to greater diversity, a combined operation of various types of power plants is
more reliable than individual power plant.
iv) High unit size possible: Generating units of higher unit capacity (200MW,
500MW etc) can be installed and operated economically.
v) Improved quality of voltage and frequency: Isolated power systems have
higher frequency fluctuations with change in load. With inter connections, the
system becomes stronger & the effect of load is reduced.
vi) Exchange of peak loads: If the load curve of power station shows a peak
demand that is greater than the rated capacity of the plant, then the excess load
can be shared by other stations connected with it.
vii) Use of older Plants: The interconnected system makes it possible to use older
and less efficient plants to carry peak loads of short durations. Although such
plants may be inadequate when used alone, yet they have sufficient capacity to
carry short peak loads when inter-connected with other modern plants.
viii) Ensure Economical operation: The interconnected system makes the
operation of concerned power station quite economical. It is because sharing of
loads among the stations is arranged in such a way that the plants having
higher cost of generation work for peak load hours only.
ix) Increases Diversity factor: The maximum demand on the system is reduced
because load curves of different inter-connected stations are different. So,
diversity factor of the system is improved, thereby increasing the effective
capacity of the system.
x) Increases load factor: The load factor and efficiency of operation are
improved.
xi) Reduces Plant Reserve capacity: Every power station is required to have a
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standby unit for emergencies. However when several power stations are
connected in parallel, the reserve capacity of the system is mush reduced. This
increases efficiency of the system.
xii) Better utilization of natural resources: Due to interconnection, there is
optimum utilization of available natural resources in the country.
2 e) Explain the construction and principle of operation of photo voltaic cell.
Ans:
Construction of Photovoltaic Cell:
Energy conversion devices used to convert sunlight in to electricity by the use of 2 marks for
-voltaic (PV) construction
made up of a P-type and N-type semiconductors. The sun lights are absorbs by with
current collection grid which is made up of metal fingers. Figure shows schematic diagram.
view of a typical solar cell.

Principle:
Photovoltaic effect is defined as the generation of the emf as a result of the
absorption of ionizing radiation. When photons from the sun are absorbed in a 2 marks for
semiconductor, they create free electrons with higher energies than the electrons principle.
which provide the bonding in the base crystal. There must be an electric field
available to force these electrons to flow out of the semiconductor to do useful
work. This electric field is provided in most solar cells by a junction of materials
which have different electrical properties. Thus continuous radiation from sun
generates electricity in semiconductor junction
2 f) Draw and explain the function of cooling tower in a thermal power station.
Ans:
Cooling Tower:

2 marks for
diagram.

Function of cooling tower:

Cooling tower is used to reduce the temperature of water coming from
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condenser. A cooling tower is a steel or concrete hyperbolic structure. There is 2 marks for
reservoir at the bottom for storing the cold water. function
Water is circulated from the basin of the cooling tower to the condenser. It
absorbs latent heat from the steam and get warm. This warm water is returned to the
cooling tower to reduce the temperature.
Hot water from condenser outlet is dropped from a height of about 8 10 m. The
cooling tower reduces the temperature of the hot water by about 7°C 10°C, as it
falls down into the basin at the bottom of the cooling tower.
This water at the reduced temperature is recirculate through the condenser and the
cycle is repeated. In cooling tower temperature of water is reduced either by
natural or forced or induced draught method or combine.
3 Attempt any Four of the following: 16
3 a) Draw schematic diagram of thermal power station showing all its parts.
Ans:

4 marks for
labeled
diagram

3 marks for
partially
labeled
diagram

2 marks for
unlabeled
diagram

OR
Any Other equivalent diagram
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3 b) Write function, location and advantages of the following equipment used in

hydroelectric power plant.
i) Penstock
ii) Spillways
iii) Forebay
iv) Tailrace.
Ans:-
i) Penstock:
Function:- Its function is to carry water from the water intake (reservoir) to turbine.
Location:- Penstock may be buried inside ground or it can be installed on the
surface between reservoir and surge tank. 1 mark each
Advantage:- Releases the flood water and maintain the water level for electricity point
generation. = 4 marks
ii)Spillways:
Function:- It has function of discharging all the water not utilised for generation.
OR Acts as a safety valve for a dam. It discharges excess water when head of water
increases above predetermine maximum level, at the time of heavy rainfall &
during floods etc. In this way spill way avoids damage of dam due to excess
pressure of water
Location:- Located at the top of dam , either within the body of dam, or at the end
of it, or entirely away from it.
Advantage:- It avoids damage from excess water during flood of dam and
concerned equipment.
iii)Forebay:-
Function:- The function of forebay is to act as regulating reservoir temporarily
storing water when the load on the plant is reduced and to provide water for initial
increment of an increasing load while water in the canal is being accelerated.
Location: - Either behind the dam or a canal spread out to accumulate the required
width of intake.
Advantage:- It is intended to provide the temporary storage of water to meet hour-
to-hour load fluctuations on the station.
iv)Tailrace:-
Function:- The water after running the turbine is to be discharged into the
river/ocean/next stage of generation. For this purpose, a tailrace is required.
Location:- at starting of river, ocean or reservoir.
Advantage:- It provide channel to discharge water.
3 c) State types of solar cells.
Ans:-
Types of solar Solar cells:
1. P-N Homo-junction.
2. P-N Hetro Junction 4 marks any
3. Hetro Junction Homo Junction four types
4. MIS (Metal Insulator semiconductor)
5. SIS (Semiconductor insulator semiconductor)

OR
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Subject Code : 17324 (EPG) Model Answer Page No :

1. Amorphous Silicon solar cell (a-Si)

2. Biohybrid solar cell
3. Cadmium telluride solar cell (CdTe)
4. Concentrated PV cell (CVP and HCVP)
5. Copper indium gallium selenide solar cells (CI(G)S)
6. Crystalline silicon solar cell (c-Si)
7. Dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC)
8. Gallium arsenide germanium solar cell (GaAs)
9. Hybrid solar cell
10. Luminescent solar concentrator cell (LSC)
11. Micromorph (tandem-cell using a- -Si)
12. Monocrystalline solar cell (mono-Si)
13. Multi-junction solar cell (MJ)
3 d) Compare thermal, hydro, nuclear and diesel power plants on the basis of (i) initial
and (ii) running cost (iii)pollution effects (iv)applications.
Ans:-
Sr. Parameter Thermal Hydro Nuclear Diesel
No
Power Plant power Power Power
plant Plant Plant
1 Initial cost Lower than hydro High due to Highest as Less
and nuclear large dam cost of reactor compared to 4 marks
construction construction is other stations
very high.
2 Running Higher than Practically Low as very Highest
nuclear and hydro very low as no less amount of running cost
cost due to amount of fuel is fuel is due to high
coal required and required. required but price of
heavy losses. more than diesel.
hydro
stations.
3 Pollution Harmful pollution Most Hazardous for Harmful
effects environment environment pollution
effects friendly if nuclear effects
waste are not
properly
disposed.
4 Applications Economical to run It can be used Generally used Most suitable
as base load plant for Base as as base load as peak load
well as peak plant plant
load plant

3 e) State any four advantages and disadvantages of wind power.

Ans:-
Advantages of wind energy system:
1. Wind energy is freely available.
2. Wind energy is inexhaustible.
3. There is no air pollution.
4. No fuel transportation cost.
5. No space is required to store fuel.
6. No need on treatment on fuel.
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7. No waste disposal cost and problem.

8. Less manpower is required per MW.
9. Layout is simple. 2 marks for
10. Time required for completion of power plant project is less. any 4
11. Space required is less and space around the tower can be utilized for farming or advantages
storage.
12. It works automatically i.e. wind turbine operates automatically.(Not required to
start WPP)
13. Technology is simple and robust.
14. Generating cost per unit is less and is goes on decreasing day by day.
15. Maintenance cost is less.
Disadvantages of wind power:
1. Initial cost per MW is high.
2. The source of power (wind) is unsteady and unreliable. 2 marks for
3. No firm generating capacity. any 4 dis-
4. In case of low wind, power cannot be generated. advantages
-30%).
6. There is limitation on site selection.
7. Transportation cost of wind tower and accessories is high.
8. It disturbs load traffic during transportation of heavy wind tower and accessories.
9. Installation cost of wind tower is high and difficult (because of WPP are
generally in hill area and transportation o
difficult to reach up to the side.
10. It produces noise.
11. The power quality of generated electricity is not superior.
12. Specific location is required.
3 f) Draw schematic arrangement of nuclear power stations and explain main stages.
Ans:-
Nuclear Power Station:

2 marks for
diagram

OR equivalent diagram

Main stages of Nuclear Power plant

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1) Nuclear Reactor
2) Heat Exchanger
3) Steam Turbine
4) Alternator
1) Nuclear Reactor :
Nuclear Reactor is an apparatus in which fission of radioactive elements is
carried out. It is a cylindrical pressure vessel in which fuel rods, moderator
and control rods are placed. Fuel is shaped and located in the reactor in such
a manner that the heat production within reactor is uniform. Moderator 2 marks for
maintains the fission chain reaction. Control rods control the chain reaction. stages
2) Heat Exchanger:
The coolant carries the heat liberated in nuclear reactor to heat exchanger.
In the heat exchanger, heat is utilized to convert water into steam.
Coolant is re-circulated in nuclear reactor and then to heat exchanger.
3) Steam turbine:
The steam generated at a high temperature and high pressure in heat
exchanger is passed through the steam turbine. The energy of steam is
converted into mechanical energy by steam turbine. Steam turbine provides
mechanical energy to alternator.
4) Alternator :
Alternator is a machine which converts mechanical energy into electrical
energy, which is supplied to grid.
4 Attempt any four of the following 16
4 a) State any four different points which are taken into consideration for the site
selection of nuclear power station.
Ans:-
Selection of site for Nuclear Power Plant:
1. It should be located near a river/Lake or seaside.
2. It should be located away from the populated area.
3. It should be located near load centre. 4 marks for
4. There should be easy access towards power plant. any 4 points
5. It should be adequate space & arrangement for short time storage and long term
disposal of the radioactive waste.
6. Land should be of good bearing capacity.
7. Area should be free from earthquake.
8. Land should be economical.
4 b) What is necessity of economizer and super heater in thermal power plant?
Ans:-
Necessity of economizer: - It extracts the heat from flue gases and utilizes this heat
to raise the temperature of feed water to the boiler, so that efficiency of overall
system is increased. 2 marks
Necessity super heater: - The steam produced in the boiler is not dry but contains Each
some moisture. Such wet steam can damage/corrode and reduce the efficiency of
the plant. Hence before supplying wet steam to turbine, it is passed through super-
heater, where it is dried and superheated by the flue gases. Super-heater increases
the overall efficiency of the plant.
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4 c) A generating station has a connected load 120MW and it supplies a maximum

demand 60 MW. The numbers of units generated in a year are .
Calculate:
a) The Load factor.
b) The demand factor of generating station.
Ans:
Given data:
Connected load = 120MW= kW
Maximum demand = 60 MW = kW
Energy generated =
a) Load factor =

= = 54794.5 kW

Load factor = = 0.9132 OR = 91.32 2 marks

b) Demand factor = = = 0.5 OR = 50 2 marks

4 d) Explain how power is generated using solar energy?
Ans:-

2 marks for
diagram

Working of solar power plant:

Solar power plant consists of following components:
1. Photovoltaic Cell panel:
Its function is to convert sunrays directly into DC electricity. 2 marks for
2. Charge Controller: Explanation
It protects battery from over charging and it prevents battery from over discharging.
3. Storage Battery:
Its function is store DC electrical energy generated by P.V. cell.
4. Inverter:
It converts DC supply into AC supply.
5. Step-up transformer:
It step-up input voltage up-to utilization voltage.

OR equivalent answer
4 e) Distinguish between run off river plants without poundage and with poundage.
(any four points)
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Subject Code : 17324 (EPG) Model Answer Page No :

Ans:-
Distinction between run off river plants without poundage and with poundage:
Sr. Parameter Run off River Plants
No. Without poundage With poundage 4 marks for
1 Water storage No Yes 4 points
2 Usage Only when water Used with
is available. available water or
with stored water
3 Generating Depends primarily Less dependent on
capacity on rate of flow of available rate of
water flow of water
4 Seasonal changes In rainy season Due facility of
water wastage water storage its
occurs while in the easier to meet
low run off period fluctuating demand
water falls short to
meet demand
5 Reliability Less More
6 Cost Economical Expensive
4 f) Compare jet condenser with surface condenser for initial cost, maintenance cost,
space required for condensation.
Ans:-
Comparison of Jet Condenser with Surface Condenser:
Sr.No. Points Jet condenser Surface condenser
1 Initial cost Low manufacturing High manufacturing cost
cost. 4 marks
2 Maintenance Low maintenance cost High maintenance cost
cost
3 Space Required Small floor space Requires large floor
space
5 Attempt any four of the following. 16
5 a) State methods of nuclear waste disposal.
Ans:
Methods of Nuclear Waste Disposal: 2 marks for
Solid radioactive wastes arise from used filters, sludge from the cooling ponds, solid waste
discarded fuel element cans, splitters etc. disposal,
Solid waste can be disposed off by storing them in shielded storage vaults. These 1 mark for
vaults or capsules can then be stored in deep salt mines or in deep wells drilled in liquid waste
the stable ocean floor. &
Sometimes suitable containers are filled with radioactive waste and sunk to the 1 mark for
bottom of seas and oceans. gaseous
Radioactive liquid wastes are discharged to sea by sufficient dilution of it. waste
Clinkering and solidifying liquid waste is another effective method of disposal. disposal
Gaseous affluent are filtered before discharging to atmosphere.
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5 b) A generating station has following load cycle.

Time (Hours) 0-6 6-10 10-12 12-16 16-20 20-24
Load (MW) 50 50 60 70 80 40
Draw the load curve and find (i) Load factor (ii) kWh (iii) Average demand (iv)
Maximum demand.
Ans:
Load Curve:

2 marks for
load curve

Total units generated in 24 hours = (10×50)+(2×60)+(4×70)+(4×80)+(4×40)

= 500+120+280+320+160
=1380 kWh ½ mark
Load factor = Average load/ Maximum demand
Max. demand = 80 kW (from load curve)
½ mark
Average load = 1380/24 = 57.5 kW ½ mark
Load factor = L.F.= 57.5/80 = 0.72 ½ mark
5 c) With reference to diesel power plant, explain (i) Air intake system ii) Engine fuel
system.
Ans:
i) Air intake system: Air intake system includes air filters, ducts and
supercharger. Air intake system is provided to supply necessary air to engine for
fuel combustion. Air filters are provided to remove dust and other suspended
impurities from air to be supplied to the engine. Supercharger is usually
2 marks
employed to increase the pressure of intake air above atmospheric pressure to
develop an increased power output. The air is drawn from outside the engine
room and delivered to the inlet manifold through ducts and filters. The filers
should be cleaned periodically. There should be minimum pressure loss in the
air intake system.
ii) Engine fuel system: It includes fuel storage tank, fuel transfer pumps, strainers,
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heaters and connecting pipes. The fuel oil is stored in bulk storage tanks which
are usually situated outdoor for safety. The fuel oil is transferred to the small 2 marks
storage tanks called day tank by means of transfer pumps through filters.
Strainers are provided to remove suspended impurities and ensure clean fuel
supply to the engine. Heaters are required to heat the oil for energy conversion.
5 d) Compare conventional and non- conventional sources of electrical energy with
respect to (i) initial and running cost (ii) site (ii) sources of power (iv) overall
efficiency.
Ans:
Comparison between Conventional and Non-conventional Sources:
Conventional Sources Non- conventional Sources
Initial and High initial and high running High initial and Low running
running cost cost cost
Particular site is required for 1 mark for
Site Particular site is required. some non-conventional each point
sources. = 4 marks
Coal, Water, Nuclear
Sources of Sunlight, air, geothermal, tidal,
material, Gas, Diesel -
power wind etc. - Unlimited in nature
Limited in nature
Overall
Currently More Currently Low
efficiency
5 e) In a nuclear power station state the material used for fuel rods, control rods,
moderator and shielding.
Ans:
Sr. No. Item Material
1 Fuel rod Uranium cladded with aluminum/stainless steel or
zirconium
2 Control rod Control rods are composed of chemical elements 1 mark for
such as boron, silver, indium and cadmium one material
3 Moderator Hydrogen, Deuterium, Helium, Lithium, Beryllium, of each item
Graphite, Ordinary water, Heavy water = 4 marks
4 Shielding Iron, Lead iron, dense concrete, Depleted uranium
5 f) Explain impulse turbines.
Ans:
Impulse Turbine:
When the entire pressure of water is converted into kinetic energy in a nozzle and
the jet drives the wheel, the turbine is called impulse turbine. Pelton wheel is an
impulse turbine. In this turbine water flowing over the turbine rotor blades remains
constant. Impulse turbine is suitable for high head and low flow plants. The
potential energy of water is converted into kinetic energy in a water jet issuing from
a nozzle. The inside pressure is atmospheric. The rotor of turbine consists of
elliptical shaped buckets along the periphery of the turbine. The water jet impinges
on the buckets and causes the motion of the rotor. The water is then discharged to
the tailrace. The quantity of water discharged by the nozzle is controlled by
controlling the nozzle opening by means of needle. The movement of needle is
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controlled by the governor.

6 Attempt any four of the following 16

6 a) Explain nuclear reactor with diagram.
Ans:
Nuclear Reactor:

2 marks for
diagram

Nuclear reactor is that part of nuclear power plant where nuclear fuel is subjected to
nuclear fission and the energy released in the process is utilized to heat the coolant
which may in turn generate steam or be used in a gas turbine. The main function of
the reactor is to control the emission and absorption of neutrons.
Basic components of nuclear reactor are:
1) Reactor core: It contains a number of fuel rods made of fissile material.
2) Moderator: It reduces the speed of neutrons to a value that increases the
probability of fission process. Graphite, ordinary water, heavy water, 2 marks for
hydrogen, deuterium etc. are used as moderators in reactors. explanation
3) Control rods: They control the rate of fission of fuel.
4) Coolant: It is a medium through which the heat generated in the reactor is
transferred to the heat exchanger for further utilization in power generation.
5) Reflectors: It is placed around the core to avoid leakage of neutrons from the
core.
6) Shielding: It is used to protect the surrounding from radiations.
6 b) Explain the concept of water hammering in penstock in hydroelectric power station
and how it can be reduced?
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Subject Code : 17324 (EPG) Model Answer Page No :

Ans:
Concept of Water Hammering:
In case of hydro generators when load on generator reduces, the governor closes the
turbine gates and thus creates an increased pressure of water in the penstock. This is
called water hammer. It may damage the walls of penstock. 4 marks
To avoid this harmful effect of water hammer, a small storage reservoir is provided
which will receive this rejected flow. This storage tank is called the surge tank. This
controls the reverse water velocity in penstock.
6 c) State any four merits and demerits of diesel power station.
Ans:
Diesel Power Station:
Merits:
1) The construction is very simple.
2) These plants can be located at any place (Load centre). ½ mark for
3) These plants can be quickly procured, installed and commissioned. each of any
4) The layout, design and construction for foundation and building for these for merits
plants are simple and economical.
5) These plants can be started and put on load quickly. = 2 marks
6) No need of large amount of water for cooling.
7) Thermal efficiency is higher than steam power plant.
8) These plants require less space for fuel storage and are free from ash handling
problems.
9) No standby losses.
Demerits:
1) Operating cost is high.
2) Maintenance and lubrication cost is high.
3) These plants cannot supply overloads continuously. ½ mark for
4) Capacity is limited.
each of any
5) Noise from exhaust is a serious problem.
6) Useful life is very short. for demerits
7) Creates pollution.
= 2 marks
8) Requirement of fuel is met from other countries.
6 d) What is boiling water reactor? Explain with diagram.
Ans:
Boiling Water Reactor:

2 marks for
diagram

It has a steel pressure vessel surrounded by a concrete shield. Fuel used is enriched 2 marks for
uranium oxide. Ordinary water is used as moderator as well as coolant. The
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uranium elements are arranged in a particular lattice from inside the pressure explanation
vessel. The steam is generated in the reactor itself. Feed water enters the reactor
vessel at the bottom and takes the heat produced in fission reaction and gets
converted into steam.
6 e) Why overall efficiency of thermal power station is low? How can it be increased?
Ans:
Overall efficiency:
Overall efficiency is defined as the ratio of heat equivalent of electrical output to
the heat of combustion. This efficiency for thermal plants is about 29%. There are
many losses occurring in steam power plants. Losses in boiler house, in dry flue 2 marks
gases, ash and unburnt carbon, moisture in gases, unknown causes lead to 16% heat
loss. Heat rejected to condenser, alternator losses are about 55%. So overall
efficiency is very poor.
Efficiency Improvement:
This efficiency can be improved by increasing the temperature and pressure of
steam entering the turbine. Also by reducing the pressure in condenser, efficiency 2 marks
can be increased. Use of super heaters , economizers and pre-heaters increase
thermal efficiency.
6 f) Explain schematic arrangement of hydro-electric power station with diagram.
Ans:
Hydro-electric power station:

2 marks for
diagram

The main requirement of hydroelectric plant is the availability of water in huge

quantity at sufficient head. An artificial storage reservoir is formed by constructing
a dam across a river. Pressure tunnel is taken off from the reservoir to the valve
house at the start of the penstock. The valve house contains main sluice valve for
controlling water flow to the power station and automatic isolating valves for
protection. A surge tank is provided for regulation of water pressure. Penstock 2 marks for
carries water from surge tank to the turbine which is coupled with alternator. The explanation
kinetic energy of water flow is converted into mechanical energy by turbine and
this mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy. Water after doing useful
work is discharged to the tailrace.