As shown in the illustration, the HP turbine 2nd stage blades are cooled by convection, with the cooling air being discharged at the _________. Illustration GT-0011

Correct Answer: Option D — blade tips

HP turbine second-stage blades utilize internal cooling passages for convection. The cooling air enters the blade root and travels through internal channels, eventually discharging at the blade tips. This design effectively manages the thermal gradient across the blade surface, preventing localized overheating and structural failure.