Ceramic Matrix Composites, well-known for their proficiency in commercial engines, are accelerating the prospect of military propulsion.
In the coming days, military missions will require engines that provide a 25% reduction in fuel consumption resulting in more than 30% greater range, while delivering up to 20% more thrust. Running engines at hotter temperatures and higher pressures is required to meet such demands, but the temperatures of state-of-the-art super alloys have been pushed to the absolute limit.
“Ceramic Matrix Composites, or CMCs, are helping us solve the fuel efficiency riddle for our next-generation Advanced Fighter engines,” said Mike Eisenmenger, manager of the Adaptive Engine Transition Program.
Engines powering military aircraft are limited to either maximum power or fuel effectiveness, which pit limitations on the aircraft performance and increases operating expenses. GE is developing an Adaptive Cycle Engine that differs from fixed cycle engines in its capability to directly alter from a fuel-efficient engine to high-performance engine needed for fighter jets.
“By using lighter-weight CMCs and reducing the amount of cooling air required to run the engine, we can answer the call for improved thrust, fuel efficiency and range,” said Mike.
CMC testing put a punctuation point on a busy 2016 Advanced fighter engine testing calendar that culminated in a new centerline High Pressure Compressor test in September. These efforts pave the way for 2017 core testing (combustor, compressor and high pressure turbine) —otherwise known as “the heart of the engine.”
“Validating the applicability of CMCs and advanced components ahead of schedule and in a true operating environment means risk reduction for the technical program at less cost, and truly helps us unlock the potential for next generation mission capability,” said Mike.
