The 3,057 kw (4,100 ehp) XT34-P-2 was developed originally as a dependable simple-cycle turboprop engine for use in high performance, long-range aircraft. It was intended that it might later be developed into a free turbine engine. A design contract for the T34-P-2 was issued in 1945, and amended in 1946 to continue development and component testing. The first engine was tested in January 1948.
The T34 turboprop engine first flew in September 1950, installed in the nose of a B-17 flying test bed, and the four-engine Boeing KC-97J, which survived as the B-377 Super Guppy, was its first application. The Air Force then selected the P-3 model for the Douglas C-133A Cargomaster, also having four engines.
Later development resulted in the 6,816 kw (9,140 ehp) XT48-P-2, which was considered for the dual engine VP-HL, a heavy, land based naval patrol aircraft that eventually led to the well known four-engine P-3 Orion.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Circa 1953
United States of America
PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet)
Pratt & Whitney
Type: Turboprop
Power rating: 4,474 kW (6,000 ehp) at 11,000 rpm
Compressor: 13-stage axial
Combustor: 8 through-flow, can-type
Turbine: 3-stage axial
Weight: 1,211 kg (2,670 lb)
3-D: 401.3 × 82.5 × 102.9cm, 1211.1kg (13 ft. 2 in. × 2 ft. 8 1/2 in. × 3 ft. 4 1/2 in., 2670lb.)
HAZ MAT: Asbestos
Ferrous Alloy
Aluminum Alloy
Plastic
Wood
Paint
Grease
Copper Alloy
A19721344000
Transferred from the U.S. Air Force, Dover AFB, Delaware
National Air and Space Museum
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