Which component of the gas turbine directly converts thermal energy into mechanical energy?

In a gas turbine, the turbine is the component that directly converts thermal energy into mechanical energy. When fuel is combusted in the combustion chamber, it produces hot gases that expand rapidly. These high-temperature gases then flow through the turbine section of the gas turbine. As the gases pass through the turbine blades, they impart energy to the blades, causing them to rotate. This rotation is mechanical energy that can then be used to drive a generator or turn a shaft to perform other work.

The combustion chamber plays a critical role in generating high-temperature gases through the burning of fuel, but it does not convert that thermal energy into mechanical energy. The compressor is responsible for compressing incoming air to increase its pressure before it enters the combustion chamber, supporting the combustion process but not directly converting energy. Lastly, the exhaust system's function is to manage the expulsion of gases after they have done work in the turbine, rather than to convert energy. Thus, the turbine is the key component where the conversion of thermal energy to mechanical energy occurs in a gas turbine system.