Advantages and disadvantages of gas turbine engines

Advantages of gas turbine engines

• Very high power-to-weight ratio, compared to reciprocating engines;

• Smaller than most reciprocating engines of the same power rating.

• Moves in one direction only, with far less vibration than a reciprocating engine.

• Fewer moving parts than reciprocating engines.

• Low operating pressures.

• High operation speeds.

• Low lubricating oil cost and consumption.

Disadvantages of gas turbine engines

• Cost is much greater than for a similar-sized reciprocating engine since the materials must be stronger and more heat resistant. Machining operations are also more complex;

• Usually less efficient than reciprocating engines, especially at idle.

• Delayed response to changes in power settings.

These disadvantages explain why road vehicles, which are smaller, cheaper and follow a less regular pattern of use than tanks, helicopters, large boats and so on, do not use gas turbine engines, regardless of the size and power advantages imminently available.