Abstract: The hollow shaft of a high pressure compressor is provided in a conically tapering section downstream of the last rotor disc on its inner surface with a vane-like rib arrangement for conveying a stream of cooling air from the vicinity of the axis of the shaft into the outer peripheral regions of the last rotor disc. The stream then passes through corresponding circumferentially distributed axial holes in the rotor disc. In this way, better cooling of the last compressor stages which have been heated by the main stream of air in the compressor and a reduction in the stresses in the structural parts can be obtained.

Abstract: The conical section of the hollow shaft of a high pressure compressor behind the last rotor disc is surrounded by an annular protective shield. The shield serves to protect the hollow shaft and the last rotor disc from the main stream of hot compressed air leaving the compressor. Between the hollow shaft and the heat shield a stream of cooling air is furthermore conducted from the vicinity of the axis to the outer region of the last rotor disc. The stream of air then passes through corresponding circumferentially distributed axial holes in the last rotor disc.