Pratt & Whitney J57 Prototype (X-176) Turbojet Engine

Object Details

Physical Description: Type: Turbojet, twin-spool; Thrust: 44,480 N (10,000 lb) (dry); Compressor: 9-stage low-pressure axial; 7-stage high-pressure axial; Combustor: 8 annular chambers; Turbine: Three-stage axial; Weight: 1,900 kg (4,200 lb)
Summary: This X-176 Pratt & Whitney turbojet was the prototype of the famous J57 series and was the first successful twin-spool turbine engine. Design of the barrel-shaped prototype started in 1948, and was released for testing in mid-1949. Superseded by the "wasp-waisted" configuration, the X-176 was retired in 1950 after accumulating 143 hours on a test stand.; Continuing development culminated with the J57 being the first production aircraft engine to be officially rated in the 10,000 lb (44,480 N) thrust class. Beginning with shipments in early-1953, the J57 powered the Boeing B-52, North American F-100, McDonnell F-101, Convair F-102, Douglas F4D, Douglas A3D, Ling-Temco-Vought F8U, Lockheed U-2, and Northrop SM-62 Snark missile. The JT3 commercial version powered the Boeing 707-120, Boeing 720, and Douglas DC-8-10.; United Aircraft Corporation's Leonard Hobbs was awarded the 1953 Collier Trophy for his leading part in developing the J57.

Credit Line: Gift of United Aircraft Corporation, Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Division

1949

Materials: HAZMAT: Magnesium; Aluminum, Inconel, Steel, Rubber, Paint, Preservative coating
Dimensions: Length 680 cm (267.6 in.), Diameter 101 cm (39.8 in.)

National Air and Space Museum

GUID (Link to Original Record): http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/nv96b5d4951-4691-4af0-9330-6796ebc1fa9f