FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP)Turbine EnginesEasy
A student mechanic is asked to explain the sequence of events that occur in a gas turbine engine operating on the Brayton cycle. Which of the following lists the events in the correct order?
- ACombustion, Compression, Intake, Exhaust
- BCompression, Intake, Combustion, Exhaust
- CIntake, Combustion, Compression, Exhaust
- DIntake, Compression, Combustion, Expansion, Exhaust
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Intake, Compression, Combustion, Expansion, Exhaust
The Brayton cycle used by gas turbine engines proceeds through intake, compression, combustion, expansion (through the turbine), and exhaust, in that order.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Combustion cannot occur before air is compressed.
- B. Compression cannot occur before air is taken in.
- C. Fuel cannot burn efficiently before the air is compressed.
Brayton Cycle
The continuous-flow thermodynamic cycle used by gas turbine engines, consisting of intake, compression, combustion, expansion, and exhaust.
- Continuous, not intermittent, combustion
- Compression raises pressure/temperature before burning
- Expansion through turbine extracts energy to drive compressor and produce thrust
Memory trick: 'I Cook Chicken Eating Exhaust' - Intake, Compress, Combust, Expand, Exhaust