Open Fan: the Safran Aero Boosters low pressure compressor is ready to meet the challenges of the RISE program
Business
For nearly 20 years, Safran Aero Boosters has been selected to develop and produce low pressure compressors for a wide range of top-selling civil aviation engines: LEAP (A320 and B737), GEnx (B787), GE9X (B777X), GE Passport (Global7500), CF34-10 (E190 & C909), GP7200 (A380). An experience which gives it a position as a world leader until the gradual replacement of these engines, beyond 2035.
Today, Safran Aero Boosters is committed to maintaining its technological edge by testing this high-speed low pressure compressor prototype at scale 1, which will provide essential aerodynamic insight into high-speed compressors for unducted engines. The tests will be conducted as part of the technology demonstration program CFM RISE (Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines)[1] and will confirm several manufacturing technologies, including the integrally-bladed rotor (“blisk”) made with two titanium alloys, representing a significant step forward in aerospace engineering. By integrating these distinct materials to satisfy a range of requirements, the blisk provides performance and exceptional durability. It combines a main rotor made of high-strength titanium – ensuring outstanding longevity during intense rotation cycles – with blades from another titanium alloy, designed to resist potential impacts.
This test campaign comes after an initial series of test completed on low-drag air-oil heat exchangers and next-generation high-flowrate oil pumps.
With these developments, Safran Aero Boosters is reasserting its commitment to more sustainable aviation. The company would like to thank all of its partners who have been involved in this innovation process, especially the Walloon government via Partenariat d’Innovation Technologique Wallon (P.I.T. - WINGS: Walloon Innovations for Green Skies), and remains completely committed to supporting CFM International as they seek to realize the aims of the RISE program.
[1] The RISE program is being developed by CFM International, a 50/50 joint-venture between Safran Aircraft Engines and GE Aerospace.
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Raphaëlle WIDART
Safran Aero Boosters
+32 496 13 63 98
Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 76,800 employees and sales of 15,3 billion euros in 2021 and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran undertakes research and development programs to maintain the environmental priorities of its R&T and innovation roadmap.
Safran is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange and is part of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices.
Safran Aero Boosters designs, develops and manufactures low-pressure compressors, equipment and test cells for aerospace propulsion. The company's products are on board the majority of commercial aircraft in service as well as Europe's Ariane launch vehicle. Based in Liège (Belgium), Safran Aero Boosters has two subsidiaries in the United States and employs 1,800 people.
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