LEAP engine onboard Boeing 747 FTA Image Credit:CFM CFM International’s next generation LEAP high bypass turbofan engine completed its m...
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| LEAP engine onboard Boeing 747 FTA Image Credit:CFM |
During the 3 hour flight time, the LEAP-1C engine performed flawlessly and completed multiple aeromechnical test points at different altitudes.
Over the coming weeks, the engine will undergo a comprehensive test schedule that will gauge engine operability, stall margin, performance, and acoustics.
CFM is currently executing the most extensive ground and flight test certification program in its history. The flight test program will involve all three LEAP engine variants, includes 28 ground and CFM flight test engines, along with a total of 32 flight test engines for Airbus, Boeing, and COMAC.
Although all three LEAP engine variants will fly on the modified testbed, the configuration currently being tested is a fully integrated propulsion system (IPS). This IPS is an industry first and unique to the LEAP-1C. CFM provides the engine as well as the nacelle and thrust reverser developed by Nexcelle. These elements, including the pylon provided by COMAC, were designed in conjunction with each other, resulting in a total system that provides improved aerodynamics, lower weight, and easier maintenance.
The three LEAP engines will be available to power the three new next-generation single-aisle aircraft which will enter service in the coming years, the 24,500 – 32,900 pounds thrust LEAP-1A choice for Airbus A320neo, the 23,000 – 28,000 pounds thrust LEAP-1B exclusive powerplant for the Boeing 737 MAX and the 27,980 – 30,000 pounds thrust LEAP-1C choice for the Chinese COMAC C919 airliner.
The LEAP-1A/-1C variants are on track for engine certification in 2015.
The CFM LEAP will deliver a 15 percent improvement in fuel efficiency, as compared to the current CFM56-7BE, saving an estimated nearly $3 million per plane.
The LEAP (Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion) engine design is based on two engines , the proven CFM56 and the GE90/GEnx series of engines.
The GE90/GEnx contributed the high-efficiency core architecture to minimize fuel consumption, while the CFM56 legacy drove reliability and maintenance cost design practices.
The engine family have booked a total of 6,770 order from operators across the globe.
CFM International is a 50/50 joint venture between French Snecma U.S. General Electric, and has delivered more than 26,500 CFM56 engines to date.
