Propulsion: Core Topics (GATE AE) — Study Resources & PYQs
Basics of thermodynamics. Aerothermodynamics of aircraft engines: thrust, efficiency, range. Brayton cycle. Engine performance: ramjet, turbojet, turbofan, turboprop and turboshaft engines; after-burners. Aerothermodynamics of non-rotating propulsion components such as intakes, nozzles. Gas turbine combustor: types and configurations; combustion, stoichiometric fuel-to-air ratio. Turbomachinery: Axial compressors: angular momentum, work and compression, characteristic performance of a single axial compressor stage, efficiency of the compressor and degree of reaction, multi-staging; Centrifugal compressor: stage dynamics, inducer, impeller and diffuser; Axial turbines: stage performance. Rockets: thrust equation and specific impulse, rocket performance; multi-staging; chemical rockets; performance of solid and liquid propellant rockets.