Mechanical drive applications of Gas turbines

The scope of gas turbines is not limited to aerodynamic uses but can also be extended for industrial purposes as well. These industrial gas turbines are designed such that they can be operated in varying climatic conditions ranging from the arctic cold to desert heat.
SGT-A30RB Aeroderivative 
The first class of industrial gas turbines are the aeroderivative turbines. As the name suggests, these are aircraft derived gas turbines. They include the same components as that of aircraft turbines with minor modifications so that they can include a wide range of liquid and gas fuels. They operate at an efficiency of 45% which indicates an increase of 15% compared to heavy duty gas turbines. They are light weight and utilize advanced materials for improved efficiency. They are multi shaft so that the mechanical components can operate at their optimal speed.

SGT700 Industrial

 The second class are the heavy duty gas turbines or frame turbines. They are heavy weight and are very compact. They operate at low speed approx. 5000-6000 r.p.m as compared to aeroderivative turbines which operate at 10000 r.p.m They use hydrodynamic bearings. They require more time and manpower for the servicing and replacement of the components. They can be either single or multi shaft. They usually have a 17 stage axial compressor, combustor with 10 fuel chambers and a 2 stage turbine.
LMS100

 The third class are the hybrid types. They combine the aerodervative combustor and the heavy duty compressor to bring out the best attributes of them. They are developing now.
Overall the choice of a particular type of gas turbine depends on the sole purpose for which you are using.

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