How does the Brayton cycle function in gas turbine operation?

The Brayton cycle is the fundamental thermodynamic cycle that describes the operation of gas turbines. It specifically involves the processes of air compression, heat addition, and gas expansion, which are essential to generating power.

In the Brayton cycle, air is first drawn into the gas turbine and compressed using a compressor. This compression increases the pressure and temperature of the air. Following compression, the high-pressure air flows into the combustion chamber, where fuel is injected and burned. This combustion process significantly raises the temperature of the air-fuel mixture.

The next stage is the expansion of the hot gases through a turbine. As the high-temperature, high-pressure gases expand, they spin the turbine, which then drives the compressor and can also produce useful work to generate electricity or provide thrust in jet engines. This cycle effectively converts the energy stored in the fuel into mechanical energy.

This understanding of how the Brayton cycle operates is crucial for recognizing its efficiency and performance characteristics in various applications involving gas turbines, such as in aviation and power generation.