Effect of nozzle friction on steam quality (dryness fraction) How does internal friction within a steam nozzle influence the dryness fraction (quality) of wet steam at the exit?

Introduction / Context:
When wet steam expands through a nozzle, the thermodynamic path may lead to further condensation or partial re-evaporation depending on losses and non-equilibrium effects. Friction alters the available enthalpy drop and the entropy rise, which impacts the exit quality.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Wet steam enters; exit is within the wet region for the comparison.
• Adiabatic nozzle with internal irreversibility (friction).
• Same inlet state and back pressure for the scenarios compared.

Concept / Approach:
In an ideal (isentropic) nozzle, the enthalpy drop converts to kinetic energy, with a certain quality at exit. Friction increases entropy, reducing the portion of enthalpy drop available to accelerate the steam. The actual exit state shifts to a higher entropy, lower quality (more moisture) condition than the isentropic case, so the dryness fraction decreases.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Reference isentropic exit: s2s = s1; determine x2s from tables (conceptually).Include friction: s2 > s1; at similar pressure, higher s in the wet region implies lower x (more moisture).Therefore, nozzle friction decreases the exit dryness fraction.

Verification / Alternative check:
Nozzle efficiency η_v = (actual KE gain) / (isentropic KE gain) < 1. Mollier (h–s) diagrams show the actual path deviating to the right (higher entropy), intersecting lower x lines at the same exit pressure.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• No effect: contradicts entropy increase due to friction.
• Increases: would require entropy reduction or heat input, not present here.
• Non-monotonic change is not characteristic for steady adiabatic nozzle friction.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing quality trends in reheating or superheating devices with nozzles; here, friction raises moisture content.

Final Answer:
decreases