These goals were instituted in FY95. Despite this modest investment, the payoff is critical for the US to maintain its lead in turbine engine technology. The program is not just for military engines, but contributes greatly to the improvement of commercial engine performance as well. These technologies are intended to allow higher temperatures at combustion initiation, a higher maximum cycle temperature, reduced specific weight, increased component efficiencies, effective control of cooling air in the small blades and vanes, improved centrifugal impeller aerodynamics, and operation at higher rotor speeds. The initial gas generator demonstrator tests are set to begin in April 2000, with the final build to demonstrate the Phase II goals expected in the January 2001 timeframe.
Initial design is essentially complete and component fabrication is underway.
Component rig testing is planned for 2000 and 2001. The CEP, if funded, will develop a new centerline engine applicable to Black Hawks and Apaches that will enable achievement of future payload and range requirements. It is expected that the CEP development program will be funded from FY01 thru FY07 to qualify a production engine of roughly 3,000 shp. Substantial progress has been made over the past 12 years. Inc. He currently supports the Joint Strike Fighter propulsion system development and serves as the managing editor of Vertiflite.