Because of inadequate heat resistant materials, the average life span of the first jet engines were only 25 hours at best.  As a result, the engines on the XP-59 Airacomet needed contant maintenance.  Today’s jet engines run 3,000 to 5,000 hours before they require an overhaul.  

ID#:

P-59A Engine 02

Source:

Air Force Flight Test Center History Office

Owner:

US Air Force

Rights Usage:

Public Domain

Terms of Use:

Smithsonian Terms of Use
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