What type of compressor design is most often used in gas turbines?

In gas turbines, the most commonly used compressor design is the axial compressor. This type of compressor is particularly suited for high flow rates and is efficient at compressing air in a continuous flow, which aligns with the operational requirements of gas turbines.

Axial compressors work by drawing air in through a series of rotating blades, which impart kinetic energy to the air, effectively increasing its pressure as it flows through the machine. This design allows for a compact structure that can handle large volumes of air, making it ideal for turbine applications where space and weight are critical factors. The continuous flow and streamlined design of the axial compressor contribute to its high efficiency and ability to operate at elevated speeds, which are essential characteristics in the context of gas turbine performance.

Other compressor designs, while useful in specific applications, do not match the performance and efficiency of axial compressors in gas turbine systems. For instance, centrifugal compressors are efficient for lower flow rates and higher pressure ratios but can be less effective at high volume flow, while reciprocating and positive displacement compressors are typically used in applications where variable loads and lower flow rates are present. Thus, the axial design stands out as the optimal choice for gas turbines.