Paper 16: Case for the Single-Shaft Vehicular Gas Turbine Engine

This paper reviews gas turbine cycles most favoured for vehicular use. It suggests the single-shaft turbine engine as a possible contender for a lower cost approach, where fuel economy requirements are not met by complexity of cycle but by operation at higher turbine inlet temperatures. The question, ‘Where does the engine end and the transmission begin?’ is discussed, and an example of an infinitely variable transmission is explored as a means for overcoming the performance deficiencies of the single-shaft machine. The paper examines the advantages and disadvantages of this type of turbine engine with respect to acceleration and torque characteristics, fuel consumption, engine braking, initial cost, and design for simplicity and high temperature.