What is the function of the combustor in a gas turbine engine?

• A. To burn fuel and raise the temperature of the air entering the turbine.
• B. To cool turbine blades.
• C. To discharge exhaust.
• D. To provide lubrication to fuel pump.

Answer: (A)

In a gas turbine, the combustor's function is to burn fuel and raise the temperature of the air entering the turbine. After the air is compressed, it goes into the combustor where fuel is injected and burned in a controlled way. The chemical energy released heats the gas to a much higher temperature, increasing its enthalpy so it can expand through the turbine and provide the energy needed to drive the turbine stages (and the compressor). This high-energy gas is essential for converting chemical energy into mechanical work.

Cooling turbine blades, discharging exhaust, and lubricating the fuel pump aren’t tasks of the combustor. Blade cooling uses dedicated cooling methods and air from the compressor; exhaust discharge happens in the exhaust section after the turbine; lubrication for the fuel system is handled by the engine’s lubrication system separate from the combustor.