The General Electric F404 - Engine of the RAAF's New Fighter.
Abstract
The F404 engine in the F/A-18 is representative of a new generation of military turbofan engines. The features of the engine that govern its performance and contribute to its maintainability are discussed. The intention is to give the non-specialist an appreciation of those factors materially affecting the operation of this type of engine. The RAAF F/A-18 Hornets are powered by two General Electric F404-GE-400 augmented turbofan engines. The 3-stage fan, driven by the low-pressure turbine, compresses inlet air that subsequently divides into the bypass and core flows. Variable inlet guide vanes schedule the direction of the flow into the fan as a function of rotational speed. The core flow is further compressed for entry to the annular combustor by the compressor, driven by the high-pressure turbine. Variable inlet guide and two rows of stators adjust the flow direction as a function of corrected compressor speed. After expansion through the turbines, the high temperature gas from the combustion process is mixed with the bypass air to form the high speed jet out of the exhaust nozzle. When operating in afterburning mode, the speed of this jet is increased by additional combustion in the afterburner.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA164562
Entities
People
- Denis Frith