Definition
In a turbine engine, the exhaust duct is the section of the engine aft of the turbine that channels exhaust gases rearward and out of the engine. It shapes and directs the gas flow to produce thrust and may include a fixed or convergent nozzle at its outlet.
Plain English
The pipe-like section at the back of a jet engine that guides hot gases out and turns that flow into thrust.
Context Anchor
Seen in engine exhaust system inspections, powerplant maintenance, and discussions of how hot gases are routed after combustion.
Derivation
From Latin 'exhaurire' meaning 'to draw out or empty,' and 'duct' from Latin 'ductus' meaning 'a leading or channel.' Together it literally means 'a channel for drawing gases out' — which is exactly its job.
Why Pilots Care
A cracked or blocked exhaust duct can allow carbon monoxide into the cabin or create excessive back pressure that reduces engine power and raises temperatures.
Intuition Check
Do not read “exhaust duct” as the exhaust fumes themselves. It means the physical passage that carries those fumes away.
Example Sentence 1
During the inspection, the technician checked the exhaust duct for cracks and signs of overheating.
Example Sentence 2
A restricted exhaust duct caused higher than normal exhaust gas temperatures on the turbine engine.