An Axial Flow Reversing Gas Turbine for Marine Propulsion

Abstract

The potential advantages of an axial flow reversing marine gas turbine are presented in order to demonstrate the system’s aerodynamic and mechanical feasibility. From this analysis, it has been determined that such a system can be developed for operational use and will be competitive with other applicable thrust reversing mechanisms. The key to success of this system depends upon the establishment of a universally applicable calculation method for determining the rotation losses for backward-turning blades. A theory has been developed and utilized, with the predicted losses in good agreement with the limited test results that have been reported and are available. The aerodynamic and mechanical features developed for the reversing scheme are well within existing technology. Actual construction of a usable system depends primarily upon the increased demand for marine gas turbine propulsion equipment.