Gas Turbine Market: What are The Types?

Imagine a world where we do not need oil-based fuels but rely on renewable natural resources instead. Maybe we can start with the turbine machine. By utilizing wind or water among others, turbine machines can generate electricity for homes or commercial buildings.

There are various benefits that we can get from gas turbines. They are easy to transport and can start quickly. As it consumes less energy and uses fewer lubricants, it can also reduce operational costs. The gas turbine is also highly reliable and has excellent availability. Even though the operational cost is low, it can produce high power density and results in lower harmful pollutants.

Regardless of the many positive sides of gas turbines, there are also downsides. Even though the operational costs can be lower in comparison to other generators, the maintenance cost can be high. At the beginning, it can also take more time for the machine to start. In addition, it has a low power-to-weight ratio and the core engine’s expense can be elevated because of exotic material usage. An external unit is required to rotate the compressor and activate the turbine, which can result in additional expense. Furthermore, the compressor demands additional power resulting in lower output, while the turbine's efficiency is lower due to the high heat content in the exhaust gases.

We can see the implementation of gas turbines in diverse applications across various industries. In general, these turbines are suitable for applications requiring highest velocity and force. For example, they are important as propulsion units in aircraft and ships. They can also be essential in automotive supercharging systems as well as for driving generators and powering pumps.

The Types
There are several types of gas turbines that are widely used in many industries.

1. Turbojet
   The good thing about turbojet is that it has compact size and reduced weight. Additionally, it has a straightforward design and operation at high velocities. However, they also have shortages. They produce significant noise and consume substantial fuel. Moreover, they are unsuitable for long-distance travel.

2. Turboprop
   Reduction gearboxes are necessary for turboprop turbines because the propeller achieves its peak efficiency at much lower speeds in comparison to the turbine’s operational speed. They have compact size and support efficiency over short distances. In addition, it has lower hourly fuel consumption in comparison to jet engines. However, they produce a high level of noise and function effectively at high altitudes.

3. Turbofan
   The term turbofan turbine describes a jet engine that employs a ducted fan for power generation. Combining a turbine and a fan, it consumes minimal fuel and noise emissions, as well as suitable for extended travel distances. However, it comes in a substantial size and unable to handle sudden changes in load. Additionally, it employs a ducted fan for propulsion.

4. Turboshaft
   The final type in the gas turbine market is turboshaft. The basic operation of this engine is very similar to a turbojet engine. The primary distinction between both types lies in how the energy from expanding gases is utilized. This type has high reliability and high performance. However, it creates loud noise and has a high manufacturing cost.