Advanced Design of Turbomachinery
It is an exciting time to be working in gas turbine technology! As industry strives for lower costs, better performance, and reduced emissions, new and challenging problems continue to emerge. With its high efficiency, rapid startup time, and large power density, the gas turbine will continue to play a large role in propulsion and power; however, both the engine and its designers will need to be adaptable in an increasingly dynamic industry.
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Current Research Projects
Robust Operation and Performance Limiting Mechanisms in Kilowatt-Scale High-Speed Gas Turbine Engines
J. Chiapperi
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We are researching small gas turbine engines for remote power generation applications. Fuel-based energy systems can provide a much higher energy density than battery-electric systems, making them ideal candidates for portable power systems, such as unmanned aerial vehicles and autonomous robots. Traditionally, applications in the kilowatt scale would be filled by reciprocating piston engines. Here, we study the potential use of gas turbine engines in the kilowatt scale. Gas turbines have the potential for higher power density, superior mechanical reliability, and greater fuel flexibility when compared to piston engines. The primary challenges are ensuring stable operation and acceptable efficiency.