Where are regenerators installed in a gas turbine system?

In a gas turbine system, regenerators are typically installed between the combustors and the high-pressure (HP) turbine sections. The primary function of a regenerator is to recover waste heat from the exhaust gases produced by the combustion process. By doing so, it preheats the compressed air before it enters the combustor.

This preheating process increases the efficiency of the gas turbine system, as the combustion of fuel with the preheated air requires less energy to achieve the desired temperature, thereby lowering the fuel consumption. By installing the regenerator at this point, the system maximizes the use of available heat energy, leading to improved thermal efficiency.

In contrast to other potential installation sites, placing the regenerator after the combustor and before the HP turbine ensures that the hot exhaust gases can transfer their heat effectively to the incoming compressed air. This strategic location enhances overall system performance and reliability.