The LM1500 was derived from the J79 engine in 1960.[3] Its first application was for the first US sea-going research hydrofoil, HSDenison.[1] Conversion as a marinised turboshaft engine involved two major changes: the addition of a free power turbine, and corrosion-protection by the addition of internal coatings and a maintenance scheme of freshwater rinsing to prevent salt damage. Naval fuels could also include diesel fuels with higher sulphur content than aviation-grade JP-5 fuel, but this was avoided in these early engines by keeping to JP fuels.[1]
Its first commercial use was as a catapult for launching aircraft.[4] Over time, its commercial applications widened to include marine propulsion[5] and its use at oil and gas pipeline compressor stations.[6]
References
123E. E. Stoeckly (28 February 1965). Marinization of The General Electric LM 1500 Gas Turbine. Gas Turbine Conference and Products Show. Washington, D. C.: ASME. doi:10.1115/65-GTP-20.