Which component of a turbine engine must be examined regularly?

The nozzle and turbine blades must be examined regularly because they are critical components of a turbine engine that experience extreme temperatures and significant mechanical stresses during operation. The nozzle is responsible for directing the flow of exhaust gases, which is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and performance of the engine, while the turbine blades extract energy from the high-velocity gases to drive the compressor and maintain engine operation.

Regular inspections of these components help to identify issues such as wear, fatigue, cracking, and thermal degradation, which can lead to catastrophic failure if not addressed. Monitoring the condition of the nozzle and turbine blades ensures the engine operates safely and efficiently, as any degradation can directly impact thrust and the overall reliability of the engine.

While the fuel tank, cooling system, and airframe structure are also important and require attention, they do not undergo the same high-stress conditions as the nozzle and turbine blades. Thus, inspections focus heavily on these latter components to ensure the performance and safety of turbine engines.