MTU Aero Engines develops new technologies for geared turbofans

As the geared turbofans (GTFs) of the first generation are busy clocking up mileage in revenue service, MTU Aero Engines engineers already have their hands full working on the second generation: Under the European Union’s Clean Sky 2 research project, the German engine manufacturer continues to enhance the fuel-efficient, low-emission, low-noise propulsion system, developing new technologies for two of its modules, the low-pressure turbine and high-pressure compressor. Two demonstrators are being built to validate the new technologies. “Under Clean Sky 2, we are paying special attention to the interactions of the components sitting on the low-pressure and high-pressure shafts,” explains Dr. Stefan Weber, Senior Vice President Technology and Engineering Advanced Programs at MTU Aero Engines. Investigations into the low-pressure turbine will also take the inlet and exit case designs into consideration, and the optimization of the high-pressure compressor will also involve improvements to the low-pressure compressor and inter-turbine case. The efforts aim to further enhance the aerodynamics and to develop new, lighter-weight and more temperature-resistant materials. Among the materials that hold the greatest promise for low-pressure turbine applications are among others ceramic matrix composites, or CMCs for short. Launched in 2014, the Clean Sky 2 technology program is part of the EU’s Horizon 2020 Framework Program for Research and Innovation and is slated to run through 2024. Its primary aim is to make aviation even more environmentally friendly and efficient. MTU is one of 16 lead partners and is responsible for an engine demonstrator and a rig.