Jet engine
A jet engine is a reaction engine discharging a fast moving jet that generates thrust by jet propulsion in accordance with Newtons laws of motion.
This broad definition of jet engine includes turbojets, turbofans, rockets, ramjets and pulse jets. In general, jet engines are combustion engines but non-combusting forms also exist.
In common parlance, the term jet engine loosely refers to an internal combustion air-breathing jet engine (a duct engine). These typically consist of an engine with a rotary (rotating) air compressor powered by a turbine (Brayton cycle), with the leftover power providing thrust via a propelling nozzle.
Rolls-Royce engine blade
This is a Rolls-Royce high-pressure turbine blade. Inside a Trent jet engine during aircraft take-off, a single blade, like this one, will develop the same horsepower as a Formula 1 racing car. It does this whilst working in an atmosphere 400 degrees above the melting point of the blades alloy and yet it can travel 10 million miles before it needs replacing.
The blade is grown as a perfect single crystal from a proprietary alloy and it incorporates a complex series of cooling air passages and holes. It is one example of the technologies that have made Rolls-Royce the worlds leading large jet engine manufacturer.
Donated Rolls Royce
