How does the starter motor disengage from a gas turbine engine?

• A. The clutch is released by magnetic release
• B. Centrifugal force releases the clutch
• C. Hydraulic actuator disengages the clutch
• D. Electric solenoid retracts the clutch

Answer: (B)

During starting, the starter drives the engine through a clutch that is held engaged at low speed. As the turbine accelerates and reaches the speed where the engine can run on its own, centrifugal force on weighted elements inside the clutch causes the clutch to release. This automatic disengagement stops the starter from driving the engine once it’s self-sustaining, preventing backdrive or overspeed of the starter. Other methods would require additional hardware or control signals, making centrifugal release the simplest and most reliable choice for automatic disengagement.