MICHAEL PHELAN / DERBY
UK engine maker assesses product range after collaboration talks with rival companies
Rolls-Royce is studying a new range of engines that will cover thrusts from 5,000-40,000lb (22-178kN), as part of its long-term replacement strategy for powerplants such as the AE3007, Tay, BR700 and International Aero Engines V2500.
"We've talked with MTU and Pratt & Whitney and other engine manufacturers, but we're not sure whether this project should be a joint venture or not," says Mike Howse, R-R director engineering and technology.
Howse says the German-led Engine 3E (E3E) - Efficiency, Environment and Economy - technology programme could provide some of the technology solutions for the smaller engine family. E3E's aims include a 20% reduction in fuel consumption compared with a typical 5:1 bypass-ratio turbofan, a 10dB reduction in noise levels and an 85% cut in nitrous oxide emissions compared with current International Civil Aviation Organisation standards by 2010.
Howse says that, while a geared fan may be considered for such an engine, he is sceptical about the value of gearing on some platforms. "On smaller engines the airframe usually has more effect on overall performance than the engine, so performance improvements face a tough trade-off."
The engines would also draw from R-R's Vision 10 technology programme, and others such as the European Union's ANTLE [Affordable Near Term Low Emissions] and NASA's Ultra Efficient Engine Technology.
According to company sources, the main problem R-R faces is determining when such a powerplant will be required, and the order in which the various platform sizes would emerge. The next step therefore will involve dialogue with airframe manufacturers about platform developments and replacements.
In the V2500 category, R-R needs to offer a product for any new-generation Airbus A320 family aircraft and Boeing 737 replacement, but does not want to undermine its relatively recent BR700 family, which powers some long-range business jets, the Boeing 717 and BAE Systems Nimrod MRA4.
Source: Flight International
