1. What is Specific Volume of Steam?

Specific volume is defined as the volume occupied by a unit mass of steam. It represents the inverse of density and is a crucial thermodynamic property in steam systems and power generation applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the specific volume formula:

Where:

• \( v \) — Specific volume (m³/kg)
• \( V \) — Total volume (m³)
• \( m \) — Mass (kg)

Explanation: This fundamental thermodynamic relationship calculates how much space one kilogram of steam occupies under given conditions.

3. Importance of Specific Volume Calculation

Details: Specific volume is essential for designing steam systems, calculating flow rates, determining pipe sizes, and analyzing thermodynamic cycles in power plants and industrial processes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter volume in cubic meters (m³) and mass in kilograms (kg). Ensure both values are positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between specific volume and density?
A: Specific volume is the reciprocal of density. While density is mass per unit volume, specific volume is volume per unit mass.

Q2: How does specific volume change with temperature and pressure?
A: Specific volume increases with temperature and decreases with pressure. For steam, it varies significantly across different phases (subcooled, saturated, superheated).

Q3: What are typical specific volume values for steam?
A: At atmospheric pressure, saturated steam has a specific volume of approximately 1.673 m³/kg, while water has about 0.001 m³/kg.

Q4: Why is specific volume important in steam turbine design?
A: Specific volume determines the volumetric flow rate through turbine stages, affecting blade design, efficiency, and overall turbine size.

Q5: How does specific volume relate to steam quality?
A: In two-phase regions, specific volume depends on steam quality (dryness fraction), with higher quality steam having larger specific volumes.