Which type of compressor is frequently used in turboshaft engines?

Which type of compressor is frequently used in turboshaft engines?

• A. Axial flow compressors
• B. Centrifugal compressors
• C. Radial flow compressors
• D. Mixed flow compressors

Answer: (B)

In turboshaft engines, the compressor chosen must deliver the required pressure rise while staying compact and reliable. Centrifugal (radial-flow) compressors are a natural fit for that goal because they provide a sizable pressure increase in a single, compact stage and have a simple, robust layout. Air enters the impeller, is flung outward to gain velocity, and then diffuser sections convert that velocity into pressure. This means you can reach the needed overall pressure with only a few stages, keeping the engine shorter, lighter, and easier to maintain—crucial advantages for helicopter powerplants that operate in tight spaces and harsh environments. While axial compressors can achieve very high pressure ratios, they typically require multiple stages and a longer body, which is less desirable for turboshafts. (Note: centrifugal and radial-flow terms describe the same general design, with mixed-flow being less common for this application.)

In turboshaft engines, the compressor chosen must deliver the required pressure rise while staying compact and reliable. Centrifugal (radial-flow) compressors are a natural fit for that goal because they provide a sizable pressure increase in a single, compact stage and have a simple, robust layout. Air enters the impeller, is flung outward to gain velocity, and then diffuser sections convert that velocity into pressure. This means you can reach the needed overall pressure with only a few stages, keeping the engine shorter, lighter, and easier to maintain—crucial advantages for helicopter powerplants that operate in tight spaces and harsh environments. While axial compressors can achieve very high pressure ratios, they typically require multiple stages and a longer body, which is less desirable for turboshafts. (Note: centrifugal and radial-flow terms describe the same general design, with mixed-flow being less common for this application.)