Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Turbofan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

✈️
Add to dictionary

turbofan

[ˈtɜːrbəˌfæn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

aircraft engine

A turbofan is a type of jet engine that is commonly used in aircraft. It consists of a large fan at the front, which compresses the air and provides the majority of the thrust, while the core of the engine generates additional thrust through combustion. Turbofans are known for their efficiency and quieter operation compared to turbojet engines.

Synonyms

fan engine, jet engine.

Examples of usage

  • The turbofan engine powers many modern jetliners.
  • Engineers designed the turbofan to improve fuel efficiency.
  • The noise from the turbofan was significantly reduced.
  • Turbofan engines are prevalent in commercial aviation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Engineering

  • Turbofans are more fuel-efficient than older jet engines, allowing planes to travel longer distances on less fuel.
  • They are quieter compared to turbojet engines, making them more suitable for commercial use and reducing noise pollution around airports.

Aviation

  • Most modern commercial airliners use turbofan engines due to their blend of performance and efficiency.
  • Turbofan engines can be classified into different types based on the bypass ratio, which is the amount of air that bypasses the engine core.

Pop Culture

  • Turbofan engines have been featured in various movies and documentaries, showcasing the incredible technology behind modern air travel.
  • Iconic aircraft like the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380 utilize turbofan engines, becoming symbols of engineering marvels in aviation.

Science

  • The design of turbofan engines incorporates principles of aerodynamics, using the physics of air movement to optimize thrust and efficiency.
  • Research continues in materials and designs for turbofans, focusing on reducing weight and increasing noise reduction features.

Origin of 'turbofan'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'turbofan' combines 'turbine,' which means something that spins to create energy, and 'fan,' indicating the large blades that move air.
  • This kind of engine became popular in the 1960s, as more efficient designs emerged for commercial jet travel.

The term 'turbofan' is derived from two components: 'turbine' and 'fan.' The inception of the turbofan engine dates back to the 1940s when engineers sought to optimize aircraft propulsion. The initial designs were developed in the UK and the US, intended to blend the high speed and power of turbojet engines with enhanced fuel efficiency. Over the years, advancements in materials and technology have led to significant improvements in turbofan design, making them the preferred choice for both commercial and military aircraft. The turbofan concept gained prominence in the 1960s, revolutionizing the aviation industry with aircraft like the Boeing 747, which featured high-bypass turbofan engines. Today, turbofans dominate the commercial aviation market due to their ability to deliver great thrust while minimizing noise and fuel consumption, shaping modern air travel.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,231 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.