What is the main purpose of the exhaust system in a gas turbine?

The main purpose of the exhaust system in a gas turbine is to effectively direct hot gases away from the engine and recover heat. As gas turbines operate, they combust fuel to produce high-temperature, high-pressure gases that expand and drive the turbine. The exhaust system is designed to manage these exhaust gases safely.

In addition to directing these gases away from the turbine, the exhaust system can play a crucial role in heat recovery. Technologies such as exhaust heat recovery systems can capture some of the thermal energy from the exhaust for use in other processes, improving overall system efficiency. This capability is particularly important in combined cycle systems, where the waste heat from the gas turbine is utilized to generate additional power through a steam turbine.

This function of directing and managing exhaust gases is vital for the safe and efficient operation of the gas turbine, making it a critical aspect of gas turbine design and operation.