MCI wants to celebrate the achievements of Sir Frank Whittle, the inventor of the turbojet engine whose birthday was on the 1st of June. His story is one of perseverance and genius that, at times, nearly broke him.
He applied to the RAF, but was turned down. Determined to join up, he tried again and was finally accepted and sent to Cranwell as an aircraft apprentice. This opportunity not only taught him the theory of aircraft engines, but also gave him invaluable practical experience in the engineering workshops. It wasn’t long before he earned himself a place on the officer training course at Cranwell and he became an accomplished pilot.
Whilst writing a thesis, he formulated the basic concepts for the turbojet engine and even took out a patent on his design in 1930. In addition, his performance on an officers’ engineering course gained him a place at Peterhouse, Cambridge, where he graduated with a First.
Whittle and two retired RAF servicemen then independently formed Power Jets Ltd. The company created the first prototype turbojet engine, which first ran in 1937. Following their success, the MOD became interested and soon contracts were signed to develop further engines.
Unfortunately, the stress was taking a toll on Whittle’s health, causing him to have a nervous breakdown in 1940. By 1944, Power Jets Ltd was nationalised and Whittle’s health declined again with another nervous breakdown. Finally he resigned from the board in 1946.
When the war was over, Whittle retired from the RAF and received his knighthood. He then joined BOAC as a technical advisor before working as an engineering specialist with Shell. He then worked with Bristol Aero Engines. His final move was to the U.S. in 1976 where he became NAVAIR Research Professor at the United States Naval Academy from 1977 to 1979. Whittle stayed in the U.S. until his death in 1996.
This remarkable man gave his all for his invention, and his genius changed the way we all travel. Next time you get on a plane, remember Whittle’s contribution.
Have a great weekend everyone!