Parsons turbine

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July 1, 2026

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The Parsons turbine, invented by Sir Charles Algernon Parsons in 1884, is a multi-stage steam turbine that revolutionized marine propulsion and electricity generation. Unlike earlier designs, Parsons' turbine used a series of stages to extract kinetic energy from steam in small steps, preventing the blades from overspeeding.12

This innovation allowed for the development of powerful turbines that could fit into relatively small spaces. In 1897, the \"Turbinia,\" a ship equipped with a Parsons turbine, achieved a speed of 34.5 knots, an extraordinary feat for the time. The turbine's efficiency was further improved with the addition of a condenser and later by a mechanical reducing gear, making it the principal prime mover for power stations and large, high-speed ships.21

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turbine
Development of modern steam turbines
…first practical large marine steam turbines. During the 1880s Carl G.P. de Laval of Sweden constructed small reaction turbines that turned at about 40,000 revolutions per minute to drive cream separators. Their high speed, however, made them unsuitable for other commercial applications. De Laval then turned his attention to single-stage…
Read More
…first practical large marine steam turbines. During the 1880s Carl G.P. de Laval of Sweden constructed small reaction turbines that turned at about 40,000 revolutions per minute to drive cream separators. Their high speed, however, made them unsuitable for other commercial applications. De Laval then turned his attention to single-stage…
Read More