Plain English Meaning

A type of jet engine compressor that uses two stages stacked back-to-back. First, air passes through a set of fan-like blades that push it straight back. Then it hits a spinning disc that flings it outward to squeeze it even more before it reaches the burner section.

Full Definition

A turbine engine compressor design that combines two compressor types in sequence: an axial-flow compressor (which moves air rearward through a series of rotating and stationary blades) followed by a centrifugal-flow compressor (which uses a spinning impeller to fling air outward). The combination produces higher pressure ratios than either type alone in a compact package, and is common in turboshaft and turboprop engines used in helicopters and small aircraft.

Context Anchor

Seen when reading about turbine engine compressor types and how air moves through the section of a turbine engine.