Honeywell's new turbofan core demonstrator exceeding performance goals

Honeywell has completed compressor mapping and basic combustor performance testing for its new turbofan technology demonstrator core.

The new business jet engine demonstrator has accumulated over 80 test hours and has exceeded operational expectations for performance, starting, stability, vibration, rotor dynamics, durability and emissions.

"Our design addresses the needs of today's fractional ownership operations and business aviation departments whose focus is ever-increasing reliability and affordability," said Steve Loranger, President, Honeywell Engines & Systems, speaking at the Paris Air Show. "The demonstrator will continue a series of tests through the summer of 2001 in preparation for full-scale development when warranted by demand and business conditions."

The common gas generator will be the basis a new family of turbofan engines planned by Honeywell, to cover a thrust range from 3000 to 6000 lbs. The engine incorporates technologies and solutions proven in other Honeywell engines and is aimed at meeting the expectations expressed by operators and manufacturers consulted by Honeywell in 1999 and 2000, in preparation for launching the design effort.

The engine will have a wide chord damperless fan, a compressor combining integrally bladed axial and centrifugal stages, and an effusion-cooled combustor. Conventional turbines will drive the high-pressure and low-pressure modules. Direct drive and geared fan versions are being considered, depending on the thrust class.

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