What advantage does a dual shaft gas turbine arrangement provide?

A dual shaft gas turbine arrangement is primarily sought after for its advantage of greater flexibility in system operations. This configuration typically features two separate shafts, allowing the high-pressure compressor and power turbine to operate independently from the low-pressure turbine. This independence provides enhanced operational flexibility in various conditions, such as part-load operation and faster acceleration.

The dual shaft design enables the gas turbine to optimize its performance over a range of conditions, making it ideal for applications where varying loads are encountered. It also allows for smoother operation and more efficient response times during transitions. Each shaft can be designed to operate efficiently at different speeds, which maximizes the overall efficiency of the gas turbine system.

While the use of smaller starting motors can be a characteristic associated with certain designs, the main focus here is on the operational and performance benefits derived from a dual shaft arrangement. Cost considerations can vary based on design and installation specifics, but greater flexibility stands out as the key advantage of the dual shaft configuration.