GEOFF THOMAS
Anyone who has tried to keep a match alight in a strong wind will understand the significance of Volvo Aero's new flameholder which fits on the business end of the Saab Gripen's RM12 engine - itself a development of GE's F404 engine.
The new piece of afterburner kit is expected to result in sharply reduced costs for the Swedish air force, in the range of $100 million over the service life of its frontline fighter, the Gripen.
Interest from abroad is also substantial as the flameholder can be adapted for use in the F404 engine of the Boeing F/A-18 aircraft, more than 1,500 of which are in service around the world. Volvo Aero recently received initial orders from both Finland and Switzerland in this context.
The flameholder is the most important piece of an afterburner. It ensures distribution of the fuel that is to be ignited and, at the same time, shelters the flame. It is exposed to very severe conditions including temperatures around 2,000 degrees centigrade. Volvo's air-cooled flameholder has been shown to enjoy a life at least three times that of current designs, and it is simple to fit without removing the engine. Damaged segments can be replaced without changing the entire unit.
Other benefits include a reduced infrared radiation (IR) signature and a 5.5kg (12lb) weight reduction over the standard item which reduces fuel consumption and aircraft performance. First deliveries are scheduled for later this year.
Source: Flight Daily News
