The ingestion of contaminants affects which sections of the gas turbine engine?

• A. Compressor only
• B. Turbine only
• C. Both the compressor and turbine sections
• D. No effect on engine sections

Answer: (C)

Contaminants carried in the intake air travel through the entire engine flow path, so both the compressor and the turbine feel their effects. In the compressor, abrasive particles erode blades and vanes, cause deposits on surfaces, and disrupt airflow, lowering compression efficiency and potentially leading to performance issues or surge. As the contaminated air proceeds to the turbine, remaining particles can erode and hot-chemically corrode turbine blades and nozzles, clog cooling passages, and create deposits that upset aerodynamics and cooling effectiveness. Because these contaminants ride along with the air from intake to exhaust, they impact both sections, making the choice that involves both compressor and turbine the best answer.