Adaptive Engine Transition Program
Abstract
The adaptive engine architecture relies on a third stream of air that can be modulated into a bypass stream or into the engine’s core. Additional bypass air increases fuel efficiency at cruise conditions, increasing range and decreasing tanker demand, while providing additional cooling air for thermal management of onboard electronics. Additional core air produces greater thrust required for higher energy conditions necessary for military fighters (acceleration, supersonic flight). AETP will also mature new materials and component technology which can be individually transitioned to existing legacy platforms. AETP will design and manufacture multiple flight-weight adaptive engine prototypes, complete component rig assessments, characterize materials, and inform manufacturing process improvements. By producing flight-weight prototypes, the program will demonstrate adaptive engine technology can be scaled to meet military fighter engine size requirements, while ensuring appropriate manufacturing- and technology-readiness levels. By performing sea-level, altitude, and durability assessments across multiple power settings, the prototype engines will demonstrate fuel efficiency increases, thrust increases, and new component technologies. These assessments will provide data to quantify the capability and reduce risk in areas such as thermal capacity, reliability, and supportability, among others. AETP has been initiated to reduce lead-time and technology risk for next-generation adaptive engine systems through technology maturation and risk reduction activities. The program is not specific to any one platform; rather, it is aimed at reducing risk in preparation for revolutionary, next-generation propulsion systems for multiple combat aircraft applications. AETP will increase acquisition agility by enabling varying degrees of technology insertion across multiple platforms.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2018
- Source ID
- ea3858faa9cb95182764643dbf080ff9
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- Root: Tech Transition Program