Rotax GTS/APU Type CT2023
The Rotax CT2023 gas turbine is a small twin shaft engine which is used to provide direct cranking power for starting a Harrier aircraft. A free power turbine turns the HP spool of a Pegasus engine via its own reduction gearbox and the accessory gearbox of the Pegasus engine. A remarkable engine which produces around 80 Bhp.

The CT2023 is also used to provide electrical power whilst the aircraft is on the ground. The gas generator is used to drive a small 2 Kw alternator, during this operation the power turbine is not used, to prevent it from rotating the Pegasus HP spool the tubine is locked stationary before the GTS is started. To start the aircraft this locking mechanism is released and the gas generator spooled up to high speed to provide the power for starting.

The CT2023 started life as the Rover 2S75 twin shaft engine which is a scaled down Rover 2S150 engine, it was then developed by Rotax into the GTS. This early engine was eventualy replaced by the more elaborate Lucas CR201 gas turbine.
Rotax CT2023 Mounted in Test Frame

 

Rotax CT2023 Section Showing Major Components
Rotax CT2023 Mounted on Pegasus Accessory Gearbox (top right)
Rotax CT2023 Specification
Output........................................................2 Kw Generator Driven by Gas Generator (APU), 80 Bhp (GTS)
RPM..........................................................55,000 (APU) 77,000 (GTS)
Compressor...............................................Centrifugal Impeller
Combustion Chamber.................................Reverse Flow Annular with five fan type fuel sprayer burner nozzles.
Compessor Turbine....................................Radial Inflow Impeller
Power Turbine............................................Axial Flow
Layout.......................................................Twin Shaft with Overhung Gas Generator, 20:1 Epicyclic Reduction Gear
Ignition......................................................High Energy Ignitor with Air Emulsion Pump Feeding Burners
Fuel System...............................................Gear Pump with Two Governors
Oil System................................................Dry Sump, Pressure and Scavenge Pumps, shares oil tank with Pegasus Engine
Application................................................Early Harrier Aircraft

 

CT2023 Accessory Gearbox
Electric Starter and 400 C/S Alternator

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