A turboprop engine uses thrust to turn a propeller. As in a turbojet, hot
gases flowing through the engine rotate a turbine wheel that drives the
compressor. The gases then pass through another turbine, called a power
turbine. This power turbine is coupled to the shaft, which drives the
propeller through gear connections.
A turboshaft is similar to a turboprop engine, differing primarily in the
function of the turbine shaft. Instead of driving a propeller, the turbine
shaft is connected to a transmission system that drives helicopter rotor
blades; electrical generators, compressors and pumps; and marine propulsion
drives for naval vessels, cargo ships, high speed passenger ships,
hydrofoils and other vessels.
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