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Just wondering what happened to the Rolls Royce Gnome engine and the Nimbus for that matter.
I was visiting a museum a few weeks ago and there was a GE xx (cant remember the number) on display and it looked very similar to a Gnome, did GE build a similar engine under license? If not dose anyone know why it wasn't utilized in civilian applications?
Jiff
Cyclic Hotline
17th Aug 2001, 01:50
Er, you probably saw a GE T-58 (military) or a CT58 (commercial) engine.
The Gnome was the RR version built under licence from GE.
Both engines are still in service in large numbers in a variety of applications. The commercial CT-58 powers the BV-107, S62, and S61 (and also Sikorky's first twin turbine helicopter, a modified S58). The military T-58 in various guises powers the H-3 (S61) series, H-46 (BV-107), UH-1F (USAF), HH-52 (USCG S62) and in perhaps it's strangest configuration, the (late) Israeli Super Frelons!
RR Gnomes are still out there in the Wessex and Sea-King plus maybe a couple of Whirlwinds still out there. They also installed them in a AB204 model.
Both engines had commercial applications in a variety of marine and industrial applications, including hovercraft.
Good, reliable, predictable motors. Will still be flying around in another 40 years.
;)
the funky munky
18th Aug 2001, 00:29
Nimbus is still kicking around in Malaysian Navy Wasps & Gnomes are fitted and maintained on Sea King and Wessex as previously stated.
Good Engine but a sod to change.
Thanks for the info, I did some digging and found some stuff about the Nimbus, for anyone that's interested here's the link.
http://www.gasturbine.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/nimbus.htm
Jiff