The Turboprop is dead - long live the Turboprop

摘要

For many applications the turboprop has long been overshadowed by the pure jet as the preferred means for powering aircraft. However, although often perceived as slower and far less glamorous than a turbofan, the gas turbine/propeller combination continues to retain an edge in terms of economy. Consequently with oil prices soaring to record levels, the turboprop is reinforcing its traditional place in the power spectrum. The original development of jet propulsion was accelerated by the scramble for air superiority during the World War Two. However, although both the Axis and the Allied powers managed to produce a few combat jet aircraft, they were too late to make any significant difference to the outcome of the conflict. Nevertheless, after the war the dust had hardly settled before the Cold War gave fresh impetus to the development of jet power for military aviation.