Definition
The third stage of compression in a multi-stage axial-flow compressor of a gas turbine engine, following the A-stage and B-stage. Each stage consists of a row of rotating blades followed by a row of stationary stator vanes, and progressively increases the pressure of the air moving through the compressor.
Plain English
The third set of spinning blades and fixed vanes inside a jet engine's compressor, which keeps squeezing the air a bit more before it reaches the combustion section.
Context Anchor
Seen in composite aircraft structure, fiberglass repairs, bonded parts, and discussions of resin curing.
Derivation
The letter labels (A-stage, B-stage, C-stage, etc.) simply mark the order of compression stages from front to back of the engine. 'Stage' comes from the Old French 'estage' meaning a level or step — each stage is one step up in pressure.
Why Pilots Care
Understanding that compression happens in sequential stages helps pilots and technicians interpret engine performance data, troubleshoot compressor issues, and read maintenance documentation that refers to specific stages by letter or number.
Grounding Statement
At C-Stage, the resin has changed from a workable material into the final hardened structure.
Intuition Check
Do not read C-Stage as just a label for the third step in any process. In this context, it specifically means the final cured condition of a thermosetting resin.
Example Sentence 1
The maintenance manual called for inspection of the C-stage stator vanes for signs of erosion.
Example Sentence 2
Heating the repaired surface advanced the resin from B-stage to C-stage for maximum strength.