Tests have been completed on an engine that could, by 2020, reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 80% and carbon dioxide output and fuel consumption by one-fifth.
The results for performance and emissions of the Component Validator for Environmentally Friendly Aero Engine - also known as CLEAN - obtained at Stuttgart University, are being analysed. To achieve emission and consumption targets, the combustor features adaptable fuel flow and injection for burning zone control, and a heat exchanger that preheats air leaving the compressor. The compressor's efficiency is boosted through the use of sensors attached to the engine casing which were developed under a Fourth Framework research project.
"The first results look very promising," says Dr Gunter Wilfert, CLEAN programme manager at German manufacturer MTU Aero Engines. "The engine ran longer than expected. We are now evaluating all the data."
Source: Flight International
