Latest Rolls-Royce engine will never fly

On display throughout the week, the so-called Trent 152,455 engine is part of ongoing efforts by Rolls-Royce to inspire young people about science and engineering. A scale replica of the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000, which powers the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, it is made up of 152,455 components (hence the name) and took 1,280 hours to assemble. The engine weighs 307 kg and is over 2 m long and 1.5 m wide. Over 160 separate engine components were built and joined together in order to replicate a real jet engine. "It is important that we encourage young people to pursue their interests in science, technology, engineering and maths," Graham Schuhmacher, head of development services at Rolls-Royce explained. "Developing skills in these areas can lead to highly rewarding careers and the opportunity to work with some of the world's most advanced technology." He added: "If we are able to inspire the young people of today, then who knows what they might go on to achieve? Jet engines of the future could be very different, if we encourage young people to engage in science and technology and to come up with new ideas." Ben Russell, an engineering apprentice at Rolls-Royce who worked on the project, said: "I have the opportunity to work in an amazing environment, with inspiring technology, while also continuing to study. Working on tomorrow's jet engines is a really exciting job and I think our LEGO engine can highlight the fun side of the industry. It was a challenge, but we certainly had fun." Over 10,000 school children were expected to attend Futures Day at Farnborough on Friday, where they will have had the opportunity to learn more about aerospace technology, the people who develop it and the exciting career opportunities available in this area.