Gas turbine engines
During the past 60 years, the gas turbine engine has continuously increased its importance as ‘prime mover’ converting thermal energy into mechanical power. With the enormous improvements in power output and efficiency, the range of applications of this relatively young technology has steadily grown. Major application areas now include aero engines, large ‘heavy duty’ gas turbines for electric power generation and marine propulsion. Gas turbines are particularly useful if high power levels are required and weight and size must be kept minimal.

Micro turbines
A recent trend is the application of “micro turbines” for small-scale power generation up to 100kW. However, significant challenges still remain in terms of efficiency, operating costs and environmental issues to make micro turbines competitive in relation to existing concepts.

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