FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

What does the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) indicator provide a relative indication of in a gas turbine engine?

1. Turbine performance

2. Turbine inlet temperature

3. Engine thrust

4. Oil temperature

The correct answer is: Turbine inlet temperature

The exhaust gas temperature (EGT) indicator provides a relative indication of turbine inlet temperature, which is a crucial parameter in understanding the thermal performance of a gas turbine engine. EGT is measured downstream of the combustion section and reflects the temperature of the gases entering the turbine section. Monitoring the EGT allows for assessment of the engine's operating efficiency and health, as well as ensuring that the engine is not exceeding its design limitations, which could cause damage or reduce performance over time. Higher EGT readings usually correspond to higher turbine inlet temperatures, which can indicate increased engine power output and efficiency, but should remain within the manufacturer's specified limits to avoid any potential failures or excessive wear. The correlation between EGT and turbine inlet temperature is essential for engine management and optimization.