FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

What is one of the primary indicators to monitor during a turbine engine start?

1. Climb rate

2. Oil temperature

3. EGT

4. Fuel pressure

The correct answer is: EGT

Monitoring exhaust gas temperature (EGT) during a turbine engine start is crucial for several reasons. EGT provides a direct indication of the engine's performance and health. During the start sequence, EGT allows technicians and pilots to assess whether the engine is producing the expected temperature levels as it begins to ignite and accelerate to idle speed. Excessively high EGT levels during start can indicate a problem, such as insufficient airflow or fuel delivery issues, potentially leading to an engine stall or damage. Conversely, lower-than-expected EGT readings might suggest incomplete combustion or a malfunctioning ignition system. Thus, EGT serves as a key metric to ensure that the engine is operating within safe parameters from the very beginning of the start-up process. While oil temperature, climb rate, and fuel pressure are important indicators of overall engine and aircraft performance, they are not as critical to monitor specifically during the start phase when immediate attention to the combustion process is necessary. EGT is the most pertinent measure during this critical moment.