Burner can shift is caused by misalignment of which component?

• A. Inlet guide vanes
• B. Combustion liners
• C. Fuel nozzles
• D. Turbine rotor

Answer: (B)

Burner can shift happens when the inner boundary that defines the combustion path isn’t lined up correctly. In a can-type combustor, each burner can is positioned and secured by the combustion liner interfaces and surrounding supports. If the combustion liners are misaligned, the can isn’t seated precisely where it should be, so during operation—when pressure, heat, and flow push on the assembly—the burner can can move slightly relative to the case. This shifting can lead to rubbing, seal issues, and disrupted flow, all of which degrade combustion stability and component life.

Misalignment of inlet guide vanes would mainly affect how air enters the compressor and the overall flow balance, not the physical position of the burner can. Misalignment of fuel nozzles can cause uneven flame characteristics, but the can’s location is governed by the liner interfaces and clamps rather than by nozzle alignment. A misaligned turbine rotor would cause vibrations and mechanical issues further downstream, not the direct cause of a burner can shift in the combustor section.