What condition may result if the angle of attack (AOA) is excessive on the compressor blades?

Excessive angle of attack (AOA) on the compressor blades can lead to compressor stalls. The angle of attack refers to the angle between the chord line of the blade and the oncoming airflow. When the AOA becomes too high, it disrupts the smooth airflow over the blades, causing flow separation. This separation leads to a significant drop in lift produced by the blades, ultimately resulting in a stall.

In a compressor stall condition, the engine may experience a loss of performance, increased vibrations, and potentially, a complete loss of thrust. This phenomenon is particularly critical in gas turbine engines where maintaining airflow and pressure ratio across the compressor stages is essential for proper operation and thrust generation.

Understanding this concept is vital for turbine operation and maintenance, as recognizing the signs of excessive AOA and subsequent stall can help in implementing corrective measures to ensure efficient and safe engine performance.