JET-LU

£5,000.00

What is this?

This is a 3D printed Jet Engine Model – Large Size – ULTIMATE EDITION (JET-LU)

A jet engine is a magnificent machine that burns energy-rich liquid fuel and releases hot exhaust gas to generate an extremely powerful pushing force called thrust. The thrust pushes a plane forward and take you to your desired destinations across the globe.

Although a jet engine is a very complex machine, its working principles can be explained using four simple terms:

  • SUCK As the fan rotates, air is drawn in at the front through an inlet or intake
  • SQUEEZE Some of the air travels into the core of the engine and gets compressed
  • BANG When the compressed air travels to the combustion chamber, it is mixed with fuel and combusted, producing hot gases
  • BLOW The hot gases exit the combustor into the turbine, where its energy is extracted and used to drive the compressor and the fan

We designed this model to help explain how a generic 3-shaft jet engine works. The design of the model has been constantly evolving since the project completed. The JET-LU, is an upgraded version of the original designs JET-LB and JET-LE.

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Technical specifications

Overall dimensions:

  • Length: 642.34mm
  • Height: 357.96mm
  • Width (or Fan Case Diameter): 312mm

Weight: Approx. 6kg
Fan speed: 10 rpm (motorised)
Manufacturing lead time: 8 – 10 weeks
Total number of components: 400+

How was this model designed?

This model was designed using publicly available material from the internet including CAD models, videos and pictures of the real jet engines from various aerospace companies. The final 3D printed Jet Engine model has more than 400+ parts fitted together perfectly. It also has a number of modules and each module was built independently and assembled together at the end in a very similar manor as to how a real jet engine is built.
* I was inspired by the 3D Printable Jet Engine by CATIAV5FTW, that’s why some parts on my model may look similar to his.

What makes this model perfect for STEM education?

The 3D printed Jet Engine model JET-LU is an excellent kit for STEM engagement because:

  • It helps capture the attention of young students instantly and engage with them more effectively
  • It helps students better understand how a Jet Engine works in simple terms by being able to explore a physical model and interact with it rather than just looking at pictures or CAD model of an engine
  • The model is made by 3D printing, hence, it helps spark interesting conversations with the students about how technologies, such as additive manufacturing are revolutionising the engineering industry today and how they can learn the skills that would benefit their careers in STEM in the near future
  • The model is an excellent representation of a real jet engine, meaning it can be used to engage with audiences of all age groups, from very young kids to professionals
  • Finally, with its large size, high level of detail, excellent quality and finish, this model can absolutely be used as a super impressive display model!

What are the differences between the JET-LU and the JET-LB / JET-LE?

The JET-LU has a number of additional features and upgraded features that aren’t available on the JET-LB/JET-LE version:

  • The JET-LU model has a stunning matte black fan
  • The JET-LU model has a more realistic-looking External Gearbox, and EEC (Electronic Engine Controller) compared with previous models
  • The JET-LU model has a better design Front Engine Mount Lugs
  • The JET-LU model comes with a complex/realistic-looking Engine Transportation Stand (instead of an Engine Build Stand as per previous models)
  • The JET-LU model features a brand new internal gearing mechanism which allows its 3 shafts to rotate at different speeds and directions. Specifically, the HP compressor and turbine blades rotate the fastest and in clockwise direction (looking from the rear of the engine). The IP compressor and turbine blades rotate slower than the HP and in counter-clockwise direction. The LP compressor and turbine blades rotate the slowest and in counter-clockwise direction. This important upgrade makes the JET-LU far more accurate compared to the previous JET-LB or JET-LE models as it represents how a 3-shaft engine operate in real life

Frequent questions

  • How can I purchase / download the STL for this model?

    We currently don’t sell the STL for this model at the moment. However, this may be temporary only. Please check back in the future.

  • Do all the blades spin?

    Yes, they do.

  • Can I take the engine off the stand?

    Yes, you can.

  • Can I spin the fan manually?

    Yes, you can.

  • Can the fan / blades be driven by a motor?

    Yes, this model is driven by two motors. One motor rotates the HP system. The other motor rotates the IP and LP systems.

  • What is the optional motor rpm?

    10 rpm – 20 rpm as standard but can be swapped for a slower or faster motor.

  • Can the motor be removed when not in use?

    Yes, the motor that drives the LP and IP systems (hidden inside the exhaust nozzle) can be removed easily. The motor that drives the HP system can NOT be removed

  • Does the model have any internal components?

    Yes, it does – a section of the outer casing can be removed to reveal the internals of the model.

  • Can the model be stripped down?

    No, most parts are glued together permanently. Only a few external parts can be removed.