Why is the air intake duct mounted above the gas turbine enclosure?

Mounting the air intake duct above the gas turbine enclosure is primarily done to position it in a location where the air is cleaner. Gas turbines require a constant supply of clean air for optimal combustion and efficiency. By placing the intake duct higher up, it minimizes the risk of drawing in dust, debris, and other contaminants that are more prevalent at ground level.

The cleaner air enhances the performance of the gas turbine, as more ideal combustion conditions can be maintained, leading to improved efficiency and reduced emissions. This design consideration is crucial in areas where the environment may have particulate matter, such as near construction sites or industrial areas.

Additionally, while lowering airflow resistance, compactness, and duct length are important factors in turbine design, the primary benefit of this configuration is the intake of cleaner air, which directly impacts the turbine's operational performance and longevity.