The authors were motivated to write this book by experiences gained while working for three
prominent gas turbine companies in the UK and the USA. These clearly showed the pressing
need for a book presenting the fundamentals of performance in an applied manner, pertinent to
the everyday work of those in industry as well as university based readers. The strategy adhered
to in writing this book, together with some of its unique features, are described below:
. The main text contains no algebra and is laid out in a manner designed for easy reference.
The latter is achieved by careful section numbering, the use of bullet points, extensive
figures, charts and tables, and by deferring the more difficult concepts to the end of sections
or chapters.
. Comprehensive lists of formulae, together with sample calculations are located at the end
of each chapter. Formulae are presented in FORTRAN/BASIC/Spreadsheet format for
ease of implementation in PC programs.
. The lead unit system employed is SI. However key unit conversions are provided on every
figure, chart and table catering for the needs of all readers world-wide. Furthermore, a
comprehensive list of unit conversions is supplied as an appendix.
. The internationally recognised aerospace recommended practice for nomenclature and
engine station numbering laid down in ARP 755A is listed as an appendix, and employed
throughout.