Why is the cycle efficiency higher in the intercooled-recuperated cycle as compared to a simple cycle gas turbine? Illustration GT-0031

Correct Answer: Option C — The intercooler serves to reduce the required high-pressure compressor power while the recuperator utilizes waste heat form the exhaust to decrease required fuel to achieve the turbine inlet temperature.

Intercooling reduces the specific volume of air entering the high-pressure compressor, lowering the work required for compression. Simultaneously, the recuperator recovers waste heat from the exhaust to preheat the air before combustion, significantly reducing the fuel mass flow required to reach the target turbine inlet temperature.