Jens William Ægidius Elling (also known as Aegidus or Aegidius) (26 July 1861 – 27 May 1949) was a Norwegian researcher, inventor, and pioneer of the gas turbine, often regarded as its father. He achieved a significant milestone by constructing the first gas turbine capable of generating surplus power beyond what was required to operate its own components.^[1][2]

Elling was born and raised in Oslo, Norway. He pursued his education in mechanical engineering at Kristiania Technical College, which is now part of Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences, graduating in 1881. From 1885 to 1902, he held positions as an engineer and designer at various workshops in both Sweden and Norway. .

His first gas turbine patent was granted in 1884. In 1903 he completed the first turbine that produced excess power; his original machine used both rotary compressors and turbines to produce 11 bhp (8 kW; 11 PS) net.^[3]He further developed the concept, and by 1912 he had developed a gas turbine system with separate turbine unit and compressor in series, a combination that is now common.^[4]

A significant obstacle was identifying materials capable of withstanding the intense temperatures generated within the turbine to achieve high power outputs. Elling’s turbine, developed in 1903, demonstrated remarkable resilience, withstanding inlet temperatures of up to 400°C (752°F). Recognizing the potential of gas turbines as an optimal power source for aircraft, Elling anticipated that advancements in materials science could enhance their viability. Building upon Elling’s foundational work, Sir Frank Whittle later succeeded in creating a practical gas turbine engine for aircraft—the jet engine. Elling’s pioneering gas turbine prototypes from 1903 and 1912 are proudly showcased at the Norsk Teknisk Museum in Oslo.

Elling also did significant development work in other areas, such as steam engine controls, pumps, compressors, vacuum drying et cetera.

In 1914, Elling authored a book titled “Billig opvarmning: veiledning i at behandle magasinovner økonomisk og letvint” (English: “Cheap Heating: Guidance for the Simple and Economical Treatment of Base Burners”), published by Aschehoug. Works penned by Elling are now considered rare, primarily preserved in museums and libraries.