Peter Calder
Peter Henry Calder | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Switzerland |
| Died | August 31, 2013 (aged 87) |
| Occupation | Mechanical engineer |
| Known for | Directed engine development for Concorde aircraft |
Peter Henry Calder OBE FREng (25 February 1926 – 31 August 2013) was a distinguished British mechanical engineer who directed the engine development efforts for the Concorde aircraft.
Early life
Calder was born in Switzerland and pursued his education at Imperial College London.
De Havilland Engines
He was employed at the Gas Dynamics Laboratory of the de Havilland Engine Company located in Hertfordshire.
Rolls-Royce
After the establishment of Bristol-Siddeley in 1959 and its acquisition of De Havilland Engine Company’s assets in 1962, Rolls-Royce opted not to absorb smaller companies as part of its strategy. During the late 1970s, Calder held the position of Project Director for the RB.2211-22B engine development.
Concorde
By 1965, Calder had advanced to assistant chief engineer on the Olympus 593 program and subsequently assumed the role of chief engineer. Serving as technical director at Rolls-Royce Filton (previously Bristol Siddeley until 1968), he managed the development of the twin-spool turbojet engines that powered the BAC Concorde. His work involved close cooperation with Concorde’s flight manager, Brian Calvert.
Personal life
In recognition of his contributions, Calder was awarded an OBE in the 1976 New Year Honours. He resided in Portishead, North Somerset, alongside his wife Mary, who died in 2015. Calder passed away on 31 August 2013 at age 87 following a prolonged illness.