Thrust bearings on dual shaft gas turbines are positioned:

Thrust bearings on dual shaft gas turbines are typically located at the front of the compressor and are positioned next to the turbine bearing. This arrangement is necessary to manage the axial thrust created by the airflow within the compressor and turbine sections.

In a dual shaft turbine system, there are two separate shafts for the compressor and the turbine, which can create opposing forces as they operate. By placing the thrust bearings at the front of the compressor and adjacent to the turbine bearing, the system can effectively balance these forces, reducing wear and maintaining alignment of the rotating components. This positioning is key to ensuring the overall stability and efficiency of the turbine operation, as it allows for the proper handling of both thrust and radial loads.

Other placements, such as at the back of the compressor or turbine sections, would not provide the same effective management of axial loads, leading to potential misalignment and increased wear over time. Therefore, the correct placement is crucial for the optimized performance and longevity of the gas turbine.