Studies begun by Dr. Hans von Ohain in 1933 led to a propulsion process in which compression and expansion were separated and carried out by a turbo compressor and turbine respectively. A model jet engine only partially functioned correctly, indicating a need for systematic development effort with industrial support and funding, leading to his employment with the Heinkel Corporation.
Von Ohain's gaseous hydrogen-powered turbojet engine designated HeS 1 ran successfully in early 1937. The HeS 3B engine, which evolved in 1938, used internal fuel gasification initially rather than the desired atomized liquid fuel injection system used in later versions. On August 27, 1939, the HeS 3B powered the Heinkel He 178 on the world's first flight of a turbojet powered aircraft.
The German Engine Industry built this non-working reproduction under the leadership of the M.T.U. Co. at the request of the Deutsches Museum of Munich, Germany, from plans drawn by Dr. von Ohain.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date
1938
Country of Origin
Germany
Type
PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet)
Designer
Dr. Hans von Ohain
Manufacturer
Heinkel-Hirth (Hirth-Motorenwerke), Stuttgart, Germany
Motoren- und Turbinen-Union Munchen GmbH
Physical Description
Type: Turbojet, single-shaft,
Thrust: 4,412 N (992 lb) at 11,000 rpm
Compressor: Single-stage, axial- flow inducer, centrifugal-flow
Combustor: Gaseous annular reverse-flow
Turbine: Single-stage radial
Weight: 360 kg (794 lb)
Dimensions
Length 128.9 cm (50.75 in.), Width 116.8 cm (46.0 in.), Height 106.0 cm (41.75 in.)
Materials
Metal, Wood, Plexiglas
Inventory Number
A19810039000
Credit Line
Gift of Motoren- und Turbinen-Union Company, Munich, Germany
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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