Published online by Cambridge University Press: 04 July 2016
The first part of this paper was concerned with the evaluation of the now classic form of low noise, single stage front fan engine as used on all contemporary designs of large subsonic civil aircraft.
This second part deals with other forms of the aircraft gas turbine which we have categorised as unconventional in the sense that they seek to achieve one or more of the following objectives:
(a) a superior performance by moving towards more extreme constant pressure gas turbine cycles;
(b) a superior performance by use of a different thermo-dynamic/propulsive system;
(c) a performance which requires an ability to modify the thermodynamic cycle at different flight conditions;
(d) uses for the engine which are additional to the normal propulsive role.
In the main, these engines are, as their title suggests, not generally adopted as powerplants for production aircraft and their often specialist role must detract from their wide use in a range of aircraft. However, it could be argued that the classic design of engine will soon be approaching a plateau of achievement and therefore some degree of unconventional form will be required in future to advance aircraft performance.