BMW Rolls-Royce has started conducting final tests on series-produced BR710 turbofans at MTU Ludwigsfelde, marking the start of new co-operation between Germany's two aero-engine manufacturers.
The companies signed the test contract in November 1996, and have now collectively invested DM8.4 million ($5 million) in modernising and upgrading MTU's former military-engine testbed to civil standards. The project also received financial support from the Brandenburg regional government, says BMW R-R.
All future series-produced BR710s will now be sent to Ludwigsfelde for pre-delivery tests, checking the engine's operation from idle to 65.4kN (14,799lb)take-off thrust.
Work has already begun in adapting the testbed to the engine's more powerful stablemate, the 98kN BR715, which will also undergo pass-off tests there once series production begins.
The testbed allows an annual throughput of 500 engines to be passed, which, according to BMW R-R, is sufficient for anticipated production levels for both types. The two companies are already co-operating in the Engine 3E research programme to develop technology for future environmentally friendly powerplants.
The programme is "a good start" for co-operation, which could in future extend to testing R-R or International Aero Engines powerplants, according to BMW R-R. Earlier long-running attempts to bring the two companies together in a merger or joint venture finally ran aground in the first quarter of 1996.
BMW R-R has just completed the 150h endurance test on the Boeing MD-95's BR715 at its base in Dahlewitz, and is working towards international certification in September 1998.
The engine was run for the first time in April. A decision is expected at the beginning of November on whether the MD-95 programme will go ahead.
Source: Flight International
