Honeywell has begun testing the core technology demonstrator for a new family of turbofan engines aimed at future business jet applications.
The first run of the Multi Purpose Core (MPC) engine, which "met all expectations" says Honeywell, was accomplished one month ahead of schedule and just 10 months after programme launch.
The MPC is the common gas generator for a new family of turbofans covering the 3,000-6,000lb (13.3-26.7kN) thrust range. The core comprises a compressor with single axial and centrifugal stages, reverse-flow, effusion-cooled annular combustor, and single-stage high-pressure turbine.
The technology demonstration programme is intended to shorten the timescale for full-scale development, which will begin once Honeywell secures a launch application, and ensures the engine "will not be the pacing item" for a new business jet, says Victor Valente, director, business development, Honeywell Engines & Systems. "From the first quarter of 2001 we will be able to get to certification within 36 months."
Primary drivers in design of the new engine are high reliability and low cost of ownership, says senior engineering manager Rick Berry. The MPC has fewer rotors and up to 50% fewer airfoils than Honeywell's current TFE731 turbofan. Performance is not a primary driver, he says, but will be competitive with the latest 731s.
The engine is aimed to have inspection intervals of 3,000h for the hot section and 6,000h for the compressor zone, compared with 2,500h and 5,000h, respectively, for the latest TFE731s.
Source: Flight International
