The Conway was the first production bypass (turbofan) engine. Turbofan technology is characterized by lower specific fuel consumption, higher take-off thrust, and quieter operation than turbojets. These characteristics make the turbofan especially suitable for long-range civil airliners. The Conway engine powered the Douglas DC8-40, Boeing 707-420, Vickers VC-10 and Super VC-10 airliners. It was also used on the Handley Page Victor B. Mk. 2 bomber and K.2 aerial tanker.

The British government funded development of the engine in 1952. It first ran in 1953, and completed its government type-test in 1955, at which time it had the lowest specific fuel consumption of any type-tested jet engine. After extensive use in early jet airliners, it was eventually replaced by engines having much higher bypass ratios.

This Conway RCo.12 Mark 509 was built by Rolls-Royce in Derby, England and powered the Douglas DC8-40 and Boeing 707-420.

 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 March 1959 Country of Origin United Kingdom Type PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet) Manufacturer Rolls-Royce Ltd. (Derby, U.K.)
 Physical Description Type: Turbofan, 2-shaft Thrust: 77,800 N (17,500 lb) at 9,990 rpm Compressor: 7-stage low-pressure axial, 9-stage high pressure axial Combustor: Annular Turbine: Single-stage high pressure axial, 2-stage low pressure axial Weight: 2,060 kg (4,542 lb) Dimensions Length 345 cm (135.9 in.), Diameter 107 cm (42.2 in.)
 Materials Magnesium, Steel, Aluminum, Rubber, Paint, Stainless Steel, Inconel, Textile, Plastic
 Inventory Number A19870225000 Credit Line Gift of International Air Leases, Inc. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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