For many years, the idea of a functional miniature jet engine intrigued modelers. In his early years of engineering, Dennis Fadden, of Canada, built this model jet engine from plans that were most likely from the 1950s. The model was advertised as having “real compressor and power turbine stages, 8 separate combustion chambers and an afterburner that goes in with a bang!” Supposedly, the finished engine would perform like a full-size jet engine, but it turned out to be a failure. However, this engine was probably most responsible for young engineers continuing pursuit of a functional miniature jet engine. Dennis finished the engine in 1980. 

Exhibit added: July 1, 2009 - Last modified: March 16, 2023

Presented by The Joe Martin Foundation for Exceptional Craftsmanship