Fuel Conservative Potential for the Use of Turboprop Powerplants

The turboprop propulsion system may offer the air transportation industry one of the most significant means of achieving reduced operating costs through large reductions in fuel consumption. The prop-fan high speed propeller concept allows the superior propulsive efficiency exhibited by the turboprop to be extended to cruise speeds compatible with current turbofan aircraft. Comparison of a prop-fan and a turbofan powered aircraft, each designed on an equal technology, equal mission and equal comfort basis is used to illustrate the prop-fan benefits. Accountability for the differences in the installation requirements of each propulsion system is included. The significant fuel and cost improvements shown for the prop-fan aircraft call for an extensive research program to verify the performance of this propulsion concept and to provide a data base that will allow incorporation in future aircraft.