FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

What type of oil system is typically found in turbine engines?

1. Only a dry sump system

2. Only a wet sump system

3. A wet or dry pump system depending on design

4. Gravity fed systems

The correct answer is: A wet or dry pump system depending on design

In turbine engines, the oil system can be either a wet sump or a dry sump system, depending on the design and requirements of the engine. A wet sump system stores the oil in a reservoir or sump that is located within the engine itself, allowing for easy access to the oil. This can be advantageous for engines that have less space or require a simpler design. On the other hand, a dry sump system uses a separate tank to hold the oil, with pumps that draw oil from the tank and deliver it to the engine. This system is typically used in applications where property changes, such as orientation and G-forces, can affect oil flow, as it ensures a consistent supply of oil regardless of the aircraft's position. Both systems have their own advantages and are chosen based on factors such as weight, size constraints, cooling requirements, and maintenance considerations. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the flexibility in design and the variable needs of turbine engines.