One thing I can't help admiring is the size of the GE engines on the thing. They seem considerably larger than conventional engines on previous models of 747s.
After a little research, it seems the GEnx-1B64 powerplants on the 748 are the largest (diameter wise) engines in the world...their diameter being a little wider than the GE90-115Bs found on some 777s out there. However the GEnx-1B64 is apparently much shorter lengthwise and delivers less thrust than the GE90.
Quote:
GEnx-1B64
Length: 196 in (498 cm)
Diameter: 144 in (366 cm)
Dry weight: Unknown
Compressor: Axial, 1 stage fan, 4 stage low pressure compressor, 10 stage high pressure compressor
Combustors: Annular
Turbine: Axial, 2 stage high pressure turbine, 7 stage low pressure turbine
Maximum Thrust: 63,800 lbf (284kN)
GE90-115Bs
Length: 287 in (7,290 mm)
Diameter: overall: 135 in (3,429 mm) ; fan: 128 in (3,251 mm)
Dry weight: 18,260 lb (8,283 kg)
Compressor: axial: 1 wide chord swept fan, 4 low pressure stages, 9 high pressure stages
Turbine: axial: 6 low pressure stages, 2 high pressure stages
Maximum Thrust: max at sea level: 115,300 lbf (512.9 kN) ; world record set at 127,900 lbf (568,9 kN) 827 feet above sea level
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