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Whittle W. 1X Turbojet Engine, 1941. Creator: Power Jets
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Whittle W. 1X Turbojet Engine, 1941. Creator: Power Jets
Sir Frank Whittles jet aircraft engine was patented in 1932, and Power Jets, Ltd. formed in 1936. The Whittle Unit bench test engine first ran on April 12, 1937. In 1939, the British Air Ministry placed a contract for the W.1 engine to be flight tested on the new Gloster E.28/39 aircraft. During taxiing tests, the W.1X non-airworthy engine unofficially became the first British turbojet to be airborne when the E.28/39 made short, straight hops. The W.1 flew officially in the E.28/39 on May 15, 1941. The W.1X and drawings of the W.2B production engine were delivered to the General Electric Company on October 1, 1941. GEs improved and uprated version, the IA, powered the first U.S. jet aircraft, the Bell XP-59A Airacomet on October 2, 1942. At the end of its useful life, the W.1X was returned to England. On November 8, 1949, the W.1X was presented to the Smithsonian by Power Jets, Ltd
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Aeroplane Air And Space Museum Aircraft Airplane Aviation Flight Nasm National Air And Space Museum Plane 2nd World War Air Transport Frank Whittle Second World War Turbojet World War Two
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Whittle W. 1X Turbojet Engine, a groundbreaking invention that revolutionized aviation during World War II. Created by Power Jets and patented by Sir Frank Whittle in 1932, this jet aircraft engine marked a significant milestone in the history of flight. The image captures the essence of technological advancement with its intricate metal structure and vibrant colors. The engine's design represents a fusion of innovation and engineering brilliance, embodying the spirit of progress that defined the mid-20th century. In 1941, after extensive testing and development, the W. 1X engine took to the skies on board the Gloster E. 28/39 aircraft for official flight trials commissioned by the British Air Ministry. This momentous occasion solidified its place as one of Britain's most remarkable contributions to aviation technology. Following its successful flights, drawings of an improved production version called W. 2B were delivered to General Electric Company in October 1941. GE further enhanced this design into their IA model, which powered America's first-ever jet aircraft -the Bell XP-59A Airacomet- on October 2nd, 1942. After serving its purpose admirably throughout World War II, this historic artifact found its way back to England before being generously presented to Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum on November 8th, 1949 by Power Jets Ltd. , preserving it as a symbol of scientific achievement for future generations. This photograph not only captures an iconic piece of machinery but also pays homage to Sir Frank Whittle's visionary mind and his invaluable contribution towards shaping modern air transportation through his pioneering turbojet engine technology.
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