An Investigation of the issues Surrounding the Fuels Adaptability of the Advanced Gas Turbine 841362

Advanced gas turbine (AGT) engines may exhibit widened fuel tolerance as well as improved thermal efficiency relative to current spark-ignition engines. However, the inherent adaptability of the engine to a variety of fuels may not be reflected in the practical fuels adaptability of gas turbine engine vehicles which are acceptable from commercial and regulatory perspectives. This paper presents the results of a study of the primary issues surrounding the fuels adaptability of commercial AGT vehicles. Topics addressed include candidate fuels and fuel characteristics, and AGT combustion and fuel system characteristics. Results of an analysis of relationships between engine characteristics and fuel properties are presented as well as observations concerning future research.