The Williams WR19 is the world’s smallest turbofan power plant. It has been used in the Bell Flying Belt, the Williams Aerial Systems Platform (WASP), and the Kaman Stowable Aircrew Vehicle Escape Rotoseat (SAVER). Developments of this turbofan engine power the Foxjet business aircraft and all U.S. cruise missiles under development in 1980.

Small turbine engines such as WR19 are finding industrial, marine, automotive, and pipeline applications. Earlier Williams turbojets powered unmanned target drones and were used as auxiliary power units for military transport aircraft. The initial high cost of such powers is often offset by their efficiency, low operating costs, and low maintenance requirements.

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

1969

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet)

Designer

Sam Williams

Manufacturer

Williams Research Corporation, Walled Lake, Michigan

Physical Description

Type: Turbofan
Thrust: 1,910 N (430 lb)
Fan: 2-stage axial
Compressor: 2-stage axial low pressure, single-stage centrifugal high pressure
Combustor: Annular
Turbine: Single-stage high pressure, 2-stage low pressure
Weight: 30 kg (67 lb)

Dimensions

Length 61 cm (24.0 in.), Diameter 30.5 cm (12.0 in.)

Materials

Metal

Inventory Number

A19790109000

Credit Line

Gift of Williams Research Corporation, Walled Lake, Michigan

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

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