Air Race
This article presents an overview of the existence and use of gas turbines in the past, present, and future. The article uses the data provided by Forecast International of Newtown, Conn., which covers both aviation and nonaviation gas turbine markets. The gas turbine has proven to be an example of technological evolution, where improvements in efficiency and reliability continue to amass, 70 years after its invention. Advanced technology developed in military jet engines has often migrated to commercial jet engines and nonaviation gas turbines, and improved their performance. Gas turbine combined-cycle power plants come in all sizes. The largest combined-cycle gas turbines are the H class machines made by GE and Siemens. Given the world’s current focus on sustainable or renewable energy, how do natural gas-fired gas turbines fit in? In some instances, renewable energy, such as solar or wind, just would not be practical without assistance from gas turbines. As power production moves tentatively into a low-carbon future, or as people look for more fuel-efficient ways to cross continents, it’s a sure bet that gas turbines will be there.