Why Don’t Jet Engines Melt?

Veritasium unpacks the magic behind jet engines that run at temperatures hot enough to melt most metals. From the basics of how airflow powers combustion to the colossal size of modern turbines, Derek Muller takes you inside a Rolls-Royce casting facility to show how nickel-based superalloys (with “gamma prime” strengthening) and single-crystal blade casting keep engines running safely at extreme heat. You’ll catch expert insights on edge dislocations, crystal structures, and the clever internal cooling channels that prevent blades from turning into molten goo.

Along the way, there’s a whirlwind tour of jet-engine history, a peek at the first engines ever built, and even a sand-striking demo to prove why those turbines don’t just seize up. Plus, you’ll get the scoop on KiwiCo discounts, a Science Alert space-vacation sweepstakes, and where to dive deeper into references and animations.

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