64.4 Turbine Engine Types

64.4.2 Compare the working cycle of a turbine engine and a piston engine. 

Gas Turbine Engine

• combustion occurs at a constant pressure
• induction, compression, combustion and exhaust occur continuously
• continuous action and is not enclosed so pressure is constant and volume increases
• no peak or fluctuation pressures
• requires light fabricated combustion chambers
• low octane fuels

Piston Engine

• occurs at a constant volume
• induction, compression, combustion and exhaust occur intermittently
• only one stroke is utilized in the production of power
• no continuous action and is enclosed so pressure rises and volume is constant
• peak pressures in excess of 1,000 lb. per sq. in.
• requires cylinders of heavy construction
• high octane fuels

64.4.4 Describe the comparative advantages of turbine engines versus piston engines for aircraft propulsion. 

Gas turbine engines

• have the ability to develop more power for a given size.
• are  lighter weight (better power to weight ratio).
• are more compact, meaning less drag.
• are more reliable, and
• can use cheaper fuel (kerosene).

64.4.6 Describe the basic constructional arrangements of the following engine types- 

The Gas Turbine engine works on the principal of turning a relatively small mass of air into a relatively large acceleration.