What Are Gas Turbine Lubrication Systems?
Gas turbine engines are an important element of countless aircraft models, serving to combust fuel-and-air mixtures to produce the power necessary for achieving propulsion and driving various systems. As energy is created and assemblies move, a high amount of heat and friction will be produced. To ensure that damage and failures are mitigated, gas turbine engines will utilize lubrication systems. Such assemblies are also used for piston engine and steam turbine assemblies as well, allowing for mechanical losses to be combated. In this blog, we will discuss the gas turbine lubrication system, allowing you to better understand the role it plays in flight operations.
A typical gas turbine engine features many components that work together to carry out operations, examples being thrust bearing or rotor bearing components, fuel system pumps, and other rotational elements. All of these parts require lubrication for optimal operations, ensuring that heat and friction are reduced as necessary. Nevertheless, bearings are often the primary component supported by the lubrication system as a result of their role in facilitating the motion of moving surfaces while deterring the friction that results from their movement.
There are many types of lubrication oil that may be used, each having varying properties. As a result, it is important to procure one that matches the viscosity and other attributes required for operations. For example, fluid film journal bearings require lubrication oil that ensures flexibility and resistance to high pressure. Meanwhile, the oil system supporting the engine will need to provide lubrication that can withstand high temperatures.
There are two primary forms of lubrication systems for gas turbines, those of which are the dry sump and wet sump systems. The dry sump system is common for aeroderivative gas turbines, and it features a reservoir that stores the lubrication oil outside of the engine. Wet-sump systems, meanwhile, are popularly used in aviation gas turbine engines. With these systems, oil is stored within engine cavities and allows for a wider range of temperature difference. Oil systems are also often categorized based on their pressure relief system, the most popular iteration being the full flow system that features pressure that varies with the engine speed.
As the lubrication system of a gas turbine engine plays a pivotal role in managing heat, lubrication, and other performance elements, it is crucial that they are well maintained on a regular basis. If one notices that their lubrication system is beginning to falter, is facing a leak, or has another issue, it should be inspected and repaired right away before another flight is conducted. Luckily for you, Internet of Components can help you source all the replacement parts you require quickly and easily.
At Internet of Components, we can save you money on the heat exchangers, journal bearings, gear pump components, lube pump products, and other various aircraft components that you need to carry out your operations with ease. Take the time to explore our expansive part inventory as you see fit, and all listings are ready for purchase at any time. If a particular part number catches your interest, fill out and submit an RFQ form at your earliest convenience, and a dedicated account manager will contact you within 15 minutes to provide a customized quote for your comparisons.
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