Components of Power Plant

In each plant, whether nuclear or fossil-fueled, the following basic components are present: Heat source: Provides heat to generate steam. In a nuclear power plant, the heat source is the nuclear reactor, often referred to as the reactor core. Turbine/generator: Uses the energy of the steam to turn a turbine/generator that produces electricity. Condenser: Condenses the steam back to water so that it can be returned to the heat source to be heated again. Cooling Tower: Removes heat from the water discharged from the condenser so that the water can be discharged to the river or recirculated and reused. Pump: Provides the force to circulate the water through the system.