Advantages and disadvantages of gas turbine engines

Advantages of gas turbine engines

• Very high power-to-weight ratio, compared to reciprocating engines;
• Smaller than most reciprocating engines of the same power rating.
• Moves in one direction only, with far less vibration than a reciprocating engine.
• Fewer moving parts than reciprocating engines.
• Low operating pressures.
• High operation speeds.
• Low lubricating oil cost and consumption.

Disadvantages of gas turbine engines

• Cost
• Less efficient than reciprocating engines at idle
• Longer startup than reciprocating engines
• Less responsive to changes in power demand compared to reciprocating engines