Here’s another write up on the B-36 that I lifted from Facebook:
What was the reason for the B-36 having piston engines?
The B-36 Peacemaker stands as a colossus in the annals of aviation history, a bomber of immense proportions and equally significant capabilities. The reason for the B-36's piston engines harks back to its inception in 1941. At that time, jet technology was in its infancy, and piston engines were the proven, reliable choice for long-distance flight.
The B-36 was designed to be a '10,000-mile bomber,' capable of delivering a payload from the United States to targets across the globe without the need for overseas bases. This incredible range was made possible by six 28-cylinder Pratt & Whitney R-4360 Wasp Major piston engines, which were among the most powerful of their kind at the time.
These engines gave the B-36 an ace up its sleeve: an extraordinary cruising altitude for a piston-driven aircraft, made possible by its massive wing area and the power of its engines. This high-altitude capability put it out of reach of most interceptors and ground-based anti-aircraft guns of the era.
However, as jet engine technology rapidly advanced, the B-36's lack of speed became a growing concern. Jet fighters were becoming faster and more capable, and the B-36 needed to keep up. The solution was a hybrid approach: the addition of four jet engines to the existing six piston engines, giving rise to the phrase "six turning, four burning." These jet engines improved takeoff performance and provided a speed boost when necessary, although they were not used full-time due to their lower fuel efficiency compared to the piston engines.
The jet engines were primarily used during takeoff to increase the potential combat load by up to 40,000 lbs and to boost dash speed over the target area. They could also be used in conjunction with an adjustment of the fuel mixture for the piston engines to achieve rapid acceleration and a steep climb to high altitude, helping to evade enemy fighters.
The B-36's piston engines were a reflection of the technological and strategic realities of the time. They provided the range and altitude performance that were crucial for the bomber's intended role. As the jet age dawned, the B-36 adapted, incorporating jet engines to enhance its performance and extend its operational life. It's a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of the engineers and strategists of the time that the B-36 served as a bridge between the eras of piston power and jet propulsion, playing a vital role in the defense strategy.
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