Where are thrust bearings located in dual shaft gas turbines?

Thrust bearings in dual shaft gas turbines are positioned at the front of the compressor and next to the turbine bearing. This location is crucial because thrust bearings are designed to absorb the thrust forces generated by the rotating masses within the turbine system.

In a dual shaft gas turbine, the compressor and the turbine are on separate shafts, hence the thrust bearings have to be strategically placed to effectively support both shafts. The front of the compressor is where the axial loads from the air intake side are primarily managed, while being adjacent to the turbine bearing accommodates the thrust loads that result from the gas expansion process in the turbine section. This arrangement ensures that the operation of both the compressor and the turbine is stable and efficient, mitigating potential wear or failure in the system.

Understanding the correct placement of thrust bearings helps in recognizing their role in maintaining proper alignment and preventing excessive axial movement, which is essential for the overall performance and longevity of gas turbine systems.