Nexcelle nacelle

GE Aviation has started assembly on the first Passport development engine to power the Bombardier Global 7000 and Global 8000 business jets.

Incorporating advanced technologies and materials, the Passport engine will produce 16,500lb of thrust.

It will offer up to 11% lower fuel consumption compared with other similar engines and satisfy CAEP/6 emissions and stage 4 noise regulations.

The new technologies in the Passport engine include composite fan case to reduce weight, a 52in front fan blisk for lower cabin noise and vibration, as well as technologies from GE’s eCore suite to lower emissions and improve fuel efficiency.

Passport’s integrated propulsion system is designed by Nexcelle, a joint venture between GE and Safran, will feature a slim-line nacelle with outward opening cover to lower weight and drag while facilitating easy maintenance access and dispatch availability.

GE launched the Passport development engine in 2010, and since then, the company conducted validation tests on the fan blisk design, including two fan blade-out rig tests, ingestion tests and a fan aero rig test, in order to to demonstrate efficiency of the fan.

"The engine will offer up to 11% lower fuel consumption compared with other similar engines and satisfy CAEP/6 emissions and stage 4 noise regulations."

Testing was carried out on two eCore demonstrators, which accumulated 150 hours, while another eCore demonstrator is slated to run this year.

Scheduled to enter service in 2016, the Global 7000 will feature an improved design and 20% more cabin space compared with the Global 6000 jet and will accommodate ten to 19 passengers and two to four crew members.

The Global 8000, which is scheduled to enter service in 2017, will have a three-zone 2,236ft³ cabin and will accommodate up to 19 passengers and two to four crew members.

GE Aviation, a subsidiary of General Electric, manufactures jet, turboprop, turbo shaft engines, components and integrated systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft.

Image: GE Passport engine’s integrated propulsion system which is designed by Nexcelle will feature a slim-line nacelle. Photo: courtesy of Nexcelle.

Defence Technology