Wright Turbo-Cyclone 18R-3350-TC (972TC18DA2), 2-Row, Radial Engine

Object Details

Manufacturer: Wright Aeronautical

Physical Description: Type: Reciprocating, 18 cylinders, 2 rows, radial, air-cooled; Power rating: 2,424 kW (3,250 hp) at 2,900 rpm; Displacement: 54.9 L (3,350 cu in.); Bore and Stroke: 156 mm (6.1 in.) x 160 mm (6.3 in.); Weight: 1621 kg (3573 lb)
Summary: This engine powered the last generation of piston engine transports, including the Douglas DC-7 and Lockheed Super Constellation. It represents the end of engine-development that began with the famous Wright Whirlwind, and included an entire family of military and commercial piston power plants. The somewhat unique feature of this engine was a turbo compound device, consisting of an exhaust-driven turbine geared to the crankshaft, generating 20 percent additional take-off power without increasing fuel consumption.; The Wright R-3350 Turbo-Cyclone 18 also powered the following aircraft types: Lockheed P2V-7 Neptune patrol bomber, Martin P5M-1 and -2 Marlin patrol flying boat, Fairchild C-119F and G Packet troop and cargo transport, Lockheed C-121 transport, and Canadair CL-28 maritime reconnaissance.; This artifact powered the American Airlines Douglas DC-7C "Flagship Vermont." A total of 374 engines of this model were built between August 1952 and December 1954. A total of 5,656 commercial C18 and 44,536 military R-3350 engines were manufactured.
Alternate Name: Wright Turbo-Cyclone 18R-3350-TC Radial Engine
Key Accomplishment(s): Powered Last Generation of Piston Engine Transports
Brief Description: This engine powered the last generation of piston engine transports, including the Douglas DC-7 and Lockheed Super Constellation. A turbo compound device generated 20% more take-off power without increasing fuel consumption.

Credit Line: Gift of American Airlines, Inc.

1952

Inventory Number: A19660150000

Restrictions & Rights: CC0

Type: PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary

Materials: Engine Overall - Steel, Aluminum, Inconel X
Dimensions: 3-D: 233.2 × 143.8cm, 1620.7kg (91 13/16 × 56 5/8 in., 3573lb.); Support: 280.7 × 158.8 × 188.6cm (110 1/2 in. × 62 1/2 in. × 74 1/4 in.)