// PROPULSION SYSTEMS AND ENGINE TECHNOLOGY TERM
Turbofan
A turbofan is a type of jet engine that uses a large fan at the front to pull in air, where a portion of the air passes through the core engine to burn fuel and create thrust, while the majority bypasses the core to generate additional, more efficient thrust. This design makes them highly efficient and quieter than older jet engines, making them ideal for commercial airplanes.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
A turbofan is a sophisticated gas turbine engine within air-breathing propulsion, distinguished by a large ducted fan that accelerates a substantial bypass airflow around the core engine, combining jet thrust with propulsive fan thrust for enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced noise levels, particularly suited for subsonic flight in commercial aviation.
BACKGROUND
General Electric Company, doing business as GE Aerospace, is an American aircraft engine supplier that is headquartered in Evendale, Ohio, outside Cincinnati. It is the legal successor to the original General Electric Company founded in 1892, which split into three separate companies between November 2021 and April 2024, adopting the trade name GE Aerospace after divesting its healthcare and energy divisions.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Fanjet
- Bypass jet
- Ducted fan engine
USAGE NOTE
Turbofans are the most prevalent engine type for modern commercial airliners and many military transport aircraft due to their superior fuel efficiency and lower noise emissions.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Turbofan.
A global leader in jet engine manufacturing, developing a wide range of turbofan engines for commercial aircraft (e.g., LEAP, GE90, GEnx) and military applications (e.g., F110).
A prominent designer and manufacturer of turbofan engines for large civil aircraft (e.g., Trent series) and military jet aircraft.
A world leader in the design, manufacture, and service of aircraft engines, including pioneering the geared turbofan (GTF) technology for commercial aviation and developing engines for military aircraft.
A key player in the aerospace propulsion industry, known for its involvement in the CFM International joint venture with GE, producing highly successful turbofan engines like the LEAP and CFM56.
Develops and manufactures smaller turbofan engines for business jets and regional aircraft, along with auxiliary power units and engine components for larger platforms.
Germany's leading engine manufacturer, involved in the development, manufacturing, and maintenance of commercial and military turbofan engines, often as a partner in international programs.
A state-owned enterprise responsible for the research, development, and manufacturing of advanced turbofan engines for commercial and military aircraft in China.
A Japanese heavy industry manufacturer with significant involvement in the development and production of jet engines, including turbofan components and licensed production for major global programs.