Military Technological College

Aeronautical Engineering department

MTCA 5069

Student Name: Qusai Salim Ambusaidi Student ID: 2009013

Subject: Gas Turbine Engines Lecturer: Mr. Sharika

Deadline: 29/12/2023 Submission date: 27/12/2023

Table of Contents
Executive summary....................................................................................................................... 3

Introduction................................................................................................................................... 4

Thermodynamic Principles and Mathematical/Physical Principles................................................5

Explain the significance of gas laws in relation to gas turbine engine operation........................5

Specific heat capacity and its relevance to gas turbine engine performance...............................7

The mathematical and physical principles employed in analyzing the performance and
construction of gas turbine engines............................................................................................7

Engine Components, Layout, and FADEC....................................................................................9

Differ between the air intake system, fuel system, lubrication system, cooling system, and
exhaust system components of gas turbine engine systems........................................................9

Examine how these parts are arranged and laid out in a gas turbine engine.............................12

Sort the parts, arrangement, and functionality of Full Authority Digital Engine Control
(FADEC) systems and assess their benefits for managing and enhancing the performance of
gas turbine engines...................................................................................................................12

Propulsion System Design and Fuel Efficiency Optimization.....................................................14

How propulsion system design can contribute to maximizing fuel efficiency in gas turbine
engines..................................................................................................................................... 14

Certain technology and design elements intended to improve fuel efficiency..........................15

Identify issues with gas turbine engine optimization, reducing negative effects while analyzing
the impact of proposed solutions and society and the environment..........................................15

Conclusion................................................................................................................................... 16

References................................................................................................................................... 17
Executive summary

Gas turbines are essential for modern power generation, aviation, and industrial processes. They
consist of key components, including the air intake system and exhaust mechanism, which
convert fuel into mechanical energy. Thermodynamic principles, such as Boyle's law, Charles'
law, and Gay-Lussac's law, are important for optimizing performance. Specific heat capacity is
also important, influencing temperature changes during compression and expansion processes.
Moreover, efficiency is the primary focus in gas turbine design, with aerodynamic changes and
advanced combustion technologies being employed. Full Authority Digital Engine Control
(FADEC) systems provide precise control over engine parameters, ensuring optimal performance
and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, as industries shift towards cleaner practices, an
integrated approach to gas turbine optimization is crucial. Balancing efficiency gains with
environmental and societal considerations remains a challenge.
Introduction

This report aims to explain the principles of gas turbines, including thermodynamics and fluid
mechanics, to guide their design and construction. Moreover, it gives a clear understanding of the
calculations related to thrust and efficiency for optimizing their performance across various
technological applications, ensuring efficient and reliable power generation.
Additionally, it describes the components of gas turbines, including the air intake, fuel channels,
lubrication, cooling, and exhaust, that work together to ensure smooth and efficient operation.
Lastly, explain the Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) dynamics that manage these
components and enhance efficiency, reliability, and fuel savings. This represents the
transformative power of digital control technology.
It is important to suggest methods and techniques that lie to improve the fuel efficiency of gas
turbines through technological advancements and design modifications. This approach expands
beyond technical intricacies and analyzes the societal and environmental impacts. Combining
ethical business practices with technological innovation ensures that gas turbines operate
efficiently while maintaining their environmental sustainability. This balance between scientific
progress and responsible engineering showcases gas turbines as a sustainable contributor to the
future.
Thermodynamic Principles and Mathematical/Physical Principles

Explain the significance of gas laws in relation to gas turbine engine operation.

Boyle's Law, Charles' Law, and Gay-Lussac's Law represents the core fundamentals principles of
thermodynamics. Listed laws can also be referred to as “Gas Laws”. The implication of gas laws
for the gas turbine engines operation would be clearly demonstrated in this analysis.

In gas, pressure and volume are inversely proportional at a condition of constant temperature.
This statement is known as Boyle's Law. The condition of constant temperature perfectly aligns
with the condition present during the compression phase of the gas turbine engines. Elevation of
pressure can be clearly noticed as the air enters the engine and undergoes compression. Such a
process takes place before entering the combustion chamber. Reflecting back to Boyle's Law will
provide the suitable explanation of the subsequent decrease in volume as air enters the
compression process and the pressure rises. Both engineers and operators strive to optimize the
efficiency of compression and prepare the air for the combustion stage, therefore, making this
knowledge indispensable.

1(Helmenstine, 2022)
Charles' Law states that at constant pressure, the volume of gas is directly proportional to the gas
absolute temperature. The law is applicable during combustion stage of the gas present in the
turbine engine. The expansion of gas volume because of the fuel ignition within the combustion
chamber and the rapid increase of temperature is a very crucial implication of this law.
Additionally, the expansion of the gas is necessary in generating high velocity exhaust gasses
sequency crucial for propelling the turbine and the engine in total.

2(Helmenstine, 2022)

Gay-Lussac's Law, which asserts the volume of a gas is inversely proportional to its absolute
temperature at a constant volume, enhances our comprehension of gas behavior .In order to
enhance our comprehension of the gas behavior, understanding the Gay-Lussac's Law is
essential. Gay-Lussac's Law establishes This law finds practical application in gas turbine
engines throughout the expansion phase of the turbine. As the combustion exhaust gases enter
the turbine, they expand due to their elevated temperature, resulting in a pressure drop. Gay-
Lussac's Law elucidates how this pressure decrease is crucial for facilitating energy transfer to
the turbine blades, thus powering the turbine and, ultimately, the engine as a whole. To maximize
the extraction of energy from the exhaust gases, engineers adhere to this formula while
enhancing the efficiency of this critical phase. (not completed)
 Revise
3(Helmenstine, 2022)

Specific heat capacity and its relevance to gas turbine engine performance

The letter "c," either lowercase or uppercase is used to refer to the concept of specific heat
capacity. It determines the needed thermal energy to raise the temperature of a given mass of a
substance by a single degree Celsius or Kelvin.
The formula for specific heat (Q) is given by:
Q=mcΔT
where:
 Q is the heat energy absorbed /released
 m is the mass of the substance
 c is the specific heat capacity of the substance
 ΔT is the change in temperature
The importance of specific heat capacity becomes noticeable. Air is the main working medium
for these engines. It has a specific heat capacity that plays a fundamental role in controlling
temperature shifts throughout the engine cycle. Additionally, this very capacity of air also
determines how much thermal energy gets absorbed during combustion. Combustion is defined
as a process where fuel combines with compressed air and catches fire, influencing the efficiency
of combustion.

The amount of energy that the turbine blades can capture depends largely on the specific heat
capacity of the heated exhaust gases that expand inside the turbine.
The effectiveness of cooling systems is influenced by specific heat capacity. These systems are
designed to protect engine components from the effects of high temperatures. In
thermodynamics, calculating efficiency in gas turbines involves paying close attention to specific
heat capacity, which is essential for safeguarding engine components from the impact of high
temperatures.

The mathematical and physical principles employed in analyzing the performance

and construction of gas turbine engines.

Learning various engineering concepts is critical for designing and operating gas turbine engines.
At the center of these engines is the First Law of Thermodynamics, which holds the core
principles. This law gives us a framework to understand how energy works in engines. It
encourages an intense submerging vision at the heat added during combustion, the work done in
compression and expansion, and the heat released in the exhaust.

Equally crucial is the Second Law of Thermodynamics, which guides engineers to improve the
efficiency of energy transformation processes.
Fluid dynamics principles are also an essential application for designing and operating gas
turbine engines. Bernoulli's principle describes the relationship between a fluid's speed, pressure,
and potential energy. The continuity equation which features the principle of mass conservation
clarifies how the engine's various parts ensure a steady mass flow rate of air. This equation
provides a complete insight into how the engine preserves a precise balance in its airflow.

The thrust (T) produced by a gas turbine engine can be calculated using the following simplified
form of the thrust equation:

T=m˙e⋅(Ve−V0)
Where:

 m˙e is the mass flow rate of exhaust gases,

 Ve is the velocity of the exhaust gases,
 V0 is the velocity of the incoming air.

The overall efficiency (η) of a gas turbine engine is commonly represented as the ratio of the
useful work done (thrust) to the energy input from the fuel. The efficiency equation is expressed
as:
η=m˙f⋅Heating Value of FuelT⋅Ve
Where:

 T is the thrust,
 Ve is the velocity of the exhaust gases,
 m˙f is the mass flow rate of fuel.

The efficiency of gas turbine engines is a complex subject influenced by both performance and
technical needs. Various efficiency metrics, including kinetic and thermal efficiency, need to be
considered. However, simplified representations may not incorporate certain factors like heat
ratios, temperature changes, and pressure ratios.

Engine Components, Layout, and FADEC

Differ between the air intake system, fuel system, lubrication system, cooling
system, and exhaust system components of gas turbine engine systems.

Engine system:
The brain of the airplane and the portion responsible for the vital transformation of fuel to thrust.
It consists of a compressor, turbine, combustor, and exhaust nozzle, etc.

4(Victor, 2017)
Air Intake System:
Referred to as the lungs of the engine. This system located in the aircraft front is responsible of
the supply of air to the engine required for the fuel ignition. Ducts and filters are components of
this system that facilitates the engine with air cleaned from any impurities and particles.

5(Aeronautics, 2023)

Fuel System:
The fuel system acts as a circulatory system of an engine. The system ensures the delivery of fuel
both effectively and within designated time intervals. Optimum engine performance is the goal.
For the approach to be accomplished, this system of complex parts of tanks, pumps, and filters
are fitted.

6(Shelton, 2021)
Lubrication System:
According to its name, lubrication system
provides lubrication to all moving parts of the
engine and is viewed as the engine's lifeblood.
Composed of pumps, filters, and pipes linked
in a complex manner to ensure the continuous
circulation of the engine's oil. It is essential to
perform such an action in order to minimize
wear and friction, which in turn results in
smooth operation of the engine and a long
service life.

7(Aeronautics, 2023)

Cooling System:
Visualized as the thermostat of the engine, the cooling
system prevents the overheating of an engine. Radiators,
fans, and ducts combinedly work in circulating air and fluid
both inside and around the engine. Such an action works in
the maintenance of the safe and ideal engine internal
temperature by dispersing the heat initiated within the
engine.

8(Ground School,2017)

Exhaust System:
In the exhaust system, the hot exhaust gases that are charged into it are diverted away from the
aircraft by acting as the engine's respiratory system. Such a system is made of pipes and nozzles
complexly arranged in such a manner to guide the gases all the way to the aircraft's rear part. The
main goal of this diversion is to ensure the safety of the aircraft and all passengers in it, and it
also has an obvious contribution to the thrust that works to propel the aircraft forward.

9(Acorn welding, 2023)

Examine how these parts are arranged and laid out in a gas turbine engine.

10(Engineering Discoveries, 2021)

Sort the parts, arrangement, and functionality of Full Authority Digital Engine
Control (FADEC) systems and assess their benefits for managing and enhancing
the performance of gas turbine engines.
The use of Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) marks a significant advancement in
regulating aircraft engine performance. In contrast to traditional methods, which require manual
pilot input and mechanical elements, FADEC relies on an intricate computer system to oversee
all aspects related to the operation of gas turbine engines. The investigation of its constituent
parts, configuration, functionality, and benefits.
Components:
The Electronic Engine Controller (EEC) serves as the central processor for FADEC and is
responsible for analyzing sensor data, making control decisions, and relaying commands to
actuators. The network of sensors constantly monitors engine parameters such as temperature,
pressure, fuel flow rates, and airspeeds, while the actuators physically modify engine settings
based on information sent by the EEC. These include adjusting critical factors like variable
vanes, bleed valves, or fuel flows, all of which are activated via command signals from this
electronic controller’s microprocessors.
Moreover, an essential aspect that governs how the entire system functions comes down to
programming software implanted within its extensive circuitry's inner workings, dictating
optimization algorithms linked closely with protecting optimal performance levels throughout
operational use cases where speed counts.

11(Aircraft Nerds, 2023)

Layout:
To ensure safety, FADEC systems usually incorporate dual or even triple channels for each
component to guarantee its functionality in case one channel fails. In addition, the system is
designed with modular components that are self-contained and replaceable for streamlined
maintenance operations. Lastly, it also communicates perfectly with other aircraft systems to
share data and operate cohesively as a whole unit through integrated communication features.
(Wiley, 2015).
Operation:
• Collection of Sensor Data: Engine parameters are continuously collected by sensors.
• Analysis of Data: Using pre-programmed operating parameters and performance
models, the EEC compares real-time data to analyze it.
• Decision Making for Control: Optimal settings for various engine variables such as
air intake and fuel flow are calculated by the EEC based on analysis results.
• Commands Given to Actuators: The actuators receive commands from the EEC in
order to adjust engine settings accordingly.
• Continuous Monitoring - In a constant cycle that involves continuous gathering of
data along with adjustments being made, optimum performance throughout the flight
is ensured.
The FADEC technology has brought about a significant improvement in gas turbine engine
control, resulting in increased aircraft efficiency and reliability. This innovative system enables
the precise monitoring and optimization of fuel burn allowing for substantial reductions in
emissions while providing considerable savings on fuel costs.
Additionally, with enhanced precision control capabilities under FADEC systems to manage
engines safely without compromising performance levels - pilots have more time to focus on
flying their planes instead of spending long hours managing complex adjustments manually.
Moreover, continuous real-time diagnostics allow for proactive measures against potential
damage by detecting irregularities before they lead to complications saving maintenance teams
precious time during routine check-ups. Finally integrating this highly sophisticated system
across all other major airline technologies opens up endless possibilities as advances bruise every
aviation technological field each day making air travel safer. (M. A. Shah and A. R.
Ansari,2012).

Propulsion System Design and Fuel Efficiency Optimization

How propulsion system design can contribute to maximizing fuel efficiency in gas
turbine engines.
With a focus on sustainable development and environmental issues, propulsion system design is
important for optimizing fuel economy in gas turbine engines.
Maintaining an efficient gas turbine engine involves careful attention to propulsion system
design. Engineers focus on refining aerodynamics for smooth airflow and optimizing the air
intake system to compress air efficiently. Lean combustion processes, advanced materials, and
strategic cooling techniques contribute to improved combustion and energy extraction efficiency.
Nozzle design and bypass ratios are fine-tuned for optimal propulsive efficiency. The integration
of digital control systems like FADEC ensures real-time precision, optimizing fuel-air ratios.
This total human approach balances economic benefits with environmental concerns, minimizing
fuel consumption and emissions. (S.A. Moiz and S.S,2016).

Certain technology and design elements intended to improve fuel efficiency.

There is a technique called Swept Fan Blades. The modern fan blades are no longer straight,
they're swept back like airplane wings, reducing noise, and improving airflow efficiency, leading
to lower fuel consumption.
 12(Research gate, 2023)

Identify issues with gas turbine engine optimization, reducing negative effects
while analyzing the impact of proposed solutions and society and the environment.
Enhancing gas turbine engine efficiency and performance encounters various challenges, one of
which is mitigating the negative impact on the environment caused by emissions. The
combustion process in these engines produces pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon
dioxide (CO2), both contributing to air pollution and climate change issues. Therefore,
developing solutions becomes an imperative course of action.
Noise pollution, the sound produced by gas turbine engines while functioning, poses a risk to
nearby neighborhoods and ecosystems, which need to find ways to minimize such disruptions.
On top of this, achieving optimal fuel efficiency remains a problem, as its consumption
contributes to environmental breakdown, demanding strategies not only for improving
performance but also for seeking out sustainable fuel alternatives.
There are additional difficulties in managing resources and supplies. The production of gas
turbine engines involves energy-intensive processes that require careful selection of materials
and environmentally friendly resource management techniques to minimize environmental
effects. Furthermore, new optimization technologies raise issues related to costs, which makes
their general use difficult. Achieving global recognition requires striking a balance between
sustainable development requirements and economic viability.
Conclusion

References
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Available at: https://sciencenotes.org/boyles-law-definition-formula-example/ (Accessed:
25 December 2023).
Helmenstine, A. (2022b) Charles’s law - definition, formula, examples, Science Notes and
Projects. Available at: https://sciencenotes.org/charless-law-definition-formula-examples/
(Accessed: 25 December 2023).

Helmenstine, A. (2022c) Gay-Lussac’s law - definition, formula, examples, Science Notes and
Projects. Available at: https://sciencenotes.org/gay-lussacs-law-definition-formula-
examples/ (Accessed: 25 December 2023).

Victor, A. (2017) - aircraft engine overhaul. Available at:

https://www.victor-aviation.com/Turbochargers_Valves.php (Accessed: 25 December
2023).

Aeronautics, G. (ed.) (2023) Aircraft reciprocating engine carburetor induction system, Aircraft
Systems. Available at: https://www.aircraftsystemstech.com/p/basic-carburetor-induction-
system.html (Accessed: 25 December 2023).

Shelton, N. (2021) How aircraft fuel systems work: Cessna 172s, Online Flight Training
Courses and CFI Tools. Available at:
https://www.boldmethod.com/learn-to-fly/systems/how-aircraft-fuel-systems-work-cessna-
172/ (Accessed: 24 December 2023).

Aeronautics, G. (ed.) (2023), Updates to image storage on blogger - blogger help (no date)
Google. Available at: https://support.google.com/blogger/answer/13656070?hl=en
(Accessed: 25 December 2023).

Ground School,2017, Aircraft Systems: Engine Cooling Systems (2017) Learn To Fly - Where
pilots and future pilots explore flight and flight training. From Aviation Supplies &
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systems/ (Accessed: 25 December 2023).

Acorn welding (2023) Aircraft exhaust system: Warnings and cautions. Available at:
https://www.acornwelding.com/blog/post/aircraft-exhaust-system-warnings-cautions/
(Accessed: 25 December 2023).

Aircraft Nerds, (2023), Full Authority Digital Engine Control - FADEC, Aircraft Nerds.
Available at: https://www.aircraftnerds.com/2018/08/full-authority-digital-engine-
control.html (Accessed: 25 December 2023).

The Jet Engine" by Rolls-Royce (Wiley, 2015) - Chapter 8 discusses FADEC systems in the
context of modern jet engines.

FADEC System Design and Implementation for a Small Turbojet Engine" by M. A. Shah and A.
R. Ansari (Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, 2012) - Discusses the
design and implementation of a FADEC system for a small turbojet engine.
Propulsion System Design for Fuel Efficiency in Gas Turbine Engines" by S.A. Moiz and S.S.
Mansoor (Journal of Aerospace Technology and Management, 2016) - Reviews propulsion
system design strategies for fuel efficiency.