How are gas turbine engines classified?

Gas turbine engines are primarily classified based on their construction, compression, combustion, and shafting characteristics. This classification system allows for a detailed understanding of the engine design and functionality.

Each category plays a critical role in determining the efficiency, performance, and application of the engine. For instance, construction can refer to whether the engine is a turbojet, turbofan, or turboprop. Compression refers to the method used to compress air, distinguishing between axial and centrifugal types. Combustion characterizes how fuel is mixed and ignited, and shafting pertains to the arrangement and design of the shafts that transfer power within the engine.

This structured classification is important because it enables engineers and operators to select the appropriate type of gas turbine engine for specific applications, such as aviation or industrial uses, while also understanding its performance parameters and limitations.