How Do Turbofan Engines Work

Civil aviation generally relies on the use of highly efficient, powerful, and reliable propulsion systems to achieve the thrust necessary for flight, with turbofan engines being one of the most notable options for modern civil aviation operations. Turbofan engines represent a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, harnessing a range of technologies and design choices that have established them as the dominant engine type in civil aviation today. 

In this blog, we will provide an informative overview of how turbofan engines work, covering everything from their core technologies to discussing why they are essential to modern flight operations. As such, be sure to read on if you are interested in learning more.

What Is a Turbofan Engine?

First developed in the 1940s, turbofan engines combine the principle of turbojet propulsion with the use of a large fan at the front of the engine, allowing such powerplants to create two useful means of thrust for flight:

1. Core Thrust: Like most engines, air drawn from the atmosphere is mixed with fuel and ignited to create the power necessary to drive various systems and functions.
2. Fan Thrust: As the large fan at the front of the engine draws in air, a large volume is actually routed around the engine core, allowing for it to be expelled at the end of the system for additional thrust.

The Key Parts of Turbofan Engines

The Fan

The large fan at the engine’s front is one of its most notable features, and as we mentioned before, it serves to draw in massive volumes of air. While a portion of air enters the engine core, the rest bypasses around it to provide most of the thrust.

The Compressor

In order for intake air to be at its most optimal state for engine use, a compressor is used to increase pressure before the combustion process. Oftentimes, modern turbofan engines will feature multiple stages of axial compressors to ensure the most efficient fuel burning.

The Combustor

Once intake air is compressed, it is mixed with injected fuel and ignited within a section called the combustion chamber. At this point, fuel and air mixtures are transformed into a high-energy exhaust gas flow that continues through the powerplant.

The Turbine

As exhaust gasses reach the turbine assembly, a set of blades extracts energy from the combustive flow to drive the fan and compressor for self-sustaining operations. In particular, high-pressure turbines are necessary for powering the compressor, while low-pressure turbines can support the fan’s operations.

The Exhaust Nozzle

The last major element of any turbofan engine is the exhaust nozzle, which is an assembly that directs exhaust gasses out of the engine. This creates additional thrust as gasses are expelled, as well as promotes safer conditions for the engine. 

The Benefits of Turbofan Engines in Civil Aviation

Turbofan engines have dominated the civil aviation sector in recent decades, a result of their ability to address key requirements of commercial flight, including safety, efficiency, and environmental performance goals.

Fuel Efficiency

High-bypass turbofan engines push more air around the core than other powerplant designs, this action delivering more thrust without burning additional fuel. This efficiency is crucial for long-haul flights, where fuel costs represent a major portion of operating expenses.

Additionally, greater fuel efficiency also translates into lower carbon emissions per passenger mile. This allows commercial operators relying on turbofan engines to better meet carbon reduction initiatives.

Noise Reduction

By mixing bypass air with exhaust gasses, turbofans are able to significantly reduce average noise levels. This makes them better suited for urban airport operations with strict noise regulations, driving their popularity for commercial operations.

High Thrust for Large Aircraft

Turbofan engines are capable of powering wide-body aircraft that carry hundreds of passengers, promoting reliable performance at low and high altitudes alike.

Notable Examples of Civil Aircraft with Turbofan Engines

Many of the world’s most recognizable civil aircraft depend on turbofan engines, the following being some of the most popular examples operated today.

• Boeing 737 MAX: Boeing’s 737 MAX is equipped with CFM International LEAP-1B turbofan engines, which are advanced options designed for efficiency and reduced emissions.
• Airbus A320neo Family: The A320neo family from Airbus features Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM geared turbofans or CFM LEAP-1A engines, both of which are known for offering exceptional fuel savings.
• Boeing 777: Powered by General Electric GE90 engines, the Boeing 777 benefits from one of the most powerful turbofans ever built.
• Airbus A350 XWB: Airbus’ A350 XWB features Rolls-Royce Trent XWB turbofan engines, which are optimized for long-haul efficiency and quiet operation.
• Boeing 787 Dreamliner: The Dreamliner operates with either Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 or GE GEnx engines, both of which are high-bypass turbofan designs.

Securing Reliable Turbofan Engine Parts

Given their central role in powering civil aircraft, turbofan engines require the highest standards of maintenance and part sourcing. Every component from fan blades to turbines must meet strict aviation safety and performance standards, so always be sure that you partner with someone you can trust for fulfillment.

For those seeking the most dependable turbofan solutions, ASAP AM Spares is your one-stop shop with a number of quality assured options being available for immediate purchase. Across our curated catalogs, customers can find a range of certified civil aviation parts that are sourced from reliable manufacturers and suppliers, everything being ready for purchase with a promise of timely fulfillment and competitive pricing. With team members on standby to provide hands-on support, be sure to get in touch to see why so many customers choose ASAP AM Spares for sourcing the turbofan engine parts they need.