What happens if you throw sand into a jet engine?

This video breaks down how a jet engine works, why they’re so massive, and what’s going on inside using edge dislocations and nickel-based superalloys (Gamma Prime). You’ll tour Rolls-Royce’s precision casting facility, see animations of microstructures and single-crystal grain selection, and learn how crystal structure and internal cooling channels stop turbine blades from melting.

In the grand finale, they literally toss sand into a running engine to see what happens—spoiler: those superalloys and clever blade designs keep everything intact. Along the way you get expert insights from Cambridge profs, Rolls-Royce engineers, and slick behind-the-scenes credits.

Watch on YouTube