Which component is positioned fourth in the steam/water flow cycle?

In the steam/water flow cycle, the fourth component is the condenser pump. The sequence of the steam cycle typically follows this order: steam is produced in the boiler, it expands and drives the turbine, then the steam is condensed back into water in the condenser. After the condensation process, the condenser pump comes into play.

The function of the condenser pump is crucial, as it moves the condensed water (now at low pressure) from the condenser back to the feed water heater. This is an essential step because it ensures that the water is returned to the system at the right temperature and pressure for the next heating phase in the boiler.

Understanding this flow is key in power engineering, as it highlights how energy conversion and heat transfer occur within the system, and emphasizes the importance of each component in maintaining efficient operation. The correct identification of the condenser pump's placement in the cycle underscores its role in facilitating the transition from the steam phase back to the water phase, ensuring continuous operation of the system.