How does the turbine generate power in a gas turbine engine?

The generation of power in a gas turbine engine primarily occurs through the extraction of energy from high-temperature gases produced during combustion. In a gas turbine engine, fuel is burned in the combustion chamber, creating a high-pressure and high-temperature gas stream. This gas expands through the turbine section of the engine, where it interacts with turbine blades.

As the hot gas expands, it transfers some of its energy to the turbine, causing the blades to spin. This mechanical energy extracted from the gas is then used to drive the compressor and, in many applications, to produce thrust or electrical power. The efficiency and effectiveness of this process depend heavily on the temperature and pressure of the gas entering the turbine, emphasizing the importance of combustion and energy extraction.

In contrast, compressing incoming air and mixing fuel and air are essential functions in the gas turbine engine cycle but do not directly generate power. Cooling the combustion process is not a method of power generation and is typically aimed at optimizing performance and reducing emissions. Thus, extracting energy from the high-temperature gases is the critical mechanism by which power is generated in the gas turbine engine.