The basic steam power [[Cycle|cycle]] includes four components, each of which is required for the cycle to function. The purpose of a steam power cycle is to convert [[Heat|thermal energy]] into usable [[Work|work]], which may be further converted into [[Electricity|electrical energy]] using a [[Generator|generator]]. The purpose of each component is as follows:
- [[Heat Exchangers|Boiler]]: Increases [[Temperature|temperature]] and [[Enthalpy|enthalpy]] of [[Fluid|fluid]], typically turning the fluid from a [[Liquid|liquid]] to a [[Superheated Vapour|superheated vapour]].
- [[Turbines, Compressors, and Pumps|Turbine]]: Converts enthalpy from the fluid into usable work.
- Condenser: Turns [[Gas|vapour]] into a liquid to allow flow through pump. A pump increases [[Efficiency|efficiency]] of the overall cycle.
- Pump: Facilitates flow through the cycle and increases [[Fluid Pressure|fluid pressure]] before heating.
![[steam_cycle.png|center]]
![[steam_Tv.png|center]]