3 ms·
All reactors generate steam. The steam is used to run generators and provide electricity, as well as run engines that drive screws (propellers are on airplanes
by jki275 8y ago
All reactors generate steam.
The steam is used to run generators and provide electricity, as well as run engines that drive screws (propellers are on airplanes).
Naval reactors are smaller than civilian reactors, but are far more efficient and use different fuel.
And "evacuate and sink" isn't an option in a multi billion dollar strategic asset.
- jabl 8y ago> All reactors generate steam. The Soviet Alfa-class used molten lead-bismuth coolant. (Which was run through a separate steam generator to generate steam, granted). Though there's no principal reason why steam has to be the working fluid. Supercritical CO2, for instance, has many attractive properties. > Naval reactors are smaller than civilian reactors, but are far more efficient Hmm, define "efficient"? Efficient as in conversion of heat to mechanical power? Or use of uranium fuel? Or what?
- LgWoodenBadger 8y agoProps as in...screws? Propeller shafts that drive...screws?
- sandworm101 8y ago"Screws" is A naval term for a propeller. Technically a propeller could also be a paddle wheel, a jet-drive, or ducted propeller sometimes called a propulsor. Screws are also sometimes called "wheels" by fishers. Everyone has their own terms. Naval people use slang to differentiate themselves from laypersons. I'm in an airforce. We don't take colloquial language so seriously.
- jki275 8y agoNo, that's not why we use slang, and a propeller and a screw are actually different.