What’s the Difference Between Turboprop and Turbofan Engines?
As you check into the idea of arranging a jet charter, you will hear references to turboprop and turbofan engines. Many people assume they are more or less interchangeable terms. In fact, these engine types share a few basic qualities while being quite different. Here are some of the things you need to know about each one before you decided to arrange for a turbofan or a turboprop charter.
How They are Alike
The turbo part in the name of each engine type indicates how both designs are similar. Essentially, both use a turbine that creates the energy needed for travel. With both designs, air is compressed to the point that adding a fuel results in the ignition needed to turn the turbine. Once ignition takes place, the compressor can sustain the thrust needed to become airborne and travel to any destination that you have in mind.
Understanding the Turbofan Engine
With a turbofan engine, the turbine that is used to create the ignition is causes a fan at the front side of the engine to turn. Many designs include two shafts that make it possible to control the oscillation of the fan and balance it with the moving parts of the engine proper. A cowl is usually part of the design and helps to direct the air flow toward and away from the fan. Some of the air goes into the turbine while the rest circulates around the engine.
One of the benefits associated with a turbofan engine is that it can be more fuel efficient than other options. If you are planning to arrange for a jet charter to Houston from New York, being able to make the trip while consuming less fuel can be a good thing.
How About the Turboprop Engine?
This engine design features a propellor at the front of the engine rather than a fan. No cowl is included in the design and the propeller is usually adjusted so that it does not spin as quickly as the turbine.
When it comes to efficiency, this engine design works better at lower speeds. Turboprops require shorter runways and works well when the jet charter to San Jose does not require a lot of rushing to reach the destination. It’s also possible to feather the propeller and reduce the amount of drag that takes place if some problem with the engine develops. In other words, the potential to make it to the ground in an emergency situation without injury is a little higher.
Keep in mind that the charter company can make recommendations based on the distance you want to travel, the amount of time you have to reach the destination, and how many people will be included in the trip. Feel free to ask questions about the fuel efficiency and what safeguards are in place to make the event as comfortable as possible. With a little expert advice, it won’t be difficult to determine which type of charter is right for you, lock in the plans, and look forward to the trip.
