The GE9X TAPS III combustor is a unique third-generation combustion system that pre-mixes air and fuel prior to combustion for leaner burn and fewer emissions than conventional combustion systems. The TAPS combustion was introduced on the GEnx engine for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the 747-8 aircraft and was enhanced for the TAPS II combustor in CFM International’s LEAP engine for narrowbody aircraft.
“The TAPS III combustor for the GE9X takes combustion technology to the next level,” said Bill Millhaem, general manager of the GE90/GE9X engine programs. “Since 2011, GE engineers have been working the GE9X TAPS III combustor. The TAPS III combustor will feature fuel nozzle tips manufactured using additive technology, along with a new combustor dome design and ceramic matrix composite (CMC) inner and outer liners, which will improve durability and require less cooling air to enhance the lean-burn combustion process.”
To design the world-class, low-emissions combustor, GE engineers successfully matched the combustion system to the GE9X’s 27:1 pressure ratio, which is the highest pressure ratio of any GE engine. The GE9X team utilized new technologies and materials that require less cooling air while allowing more air into the mixer. The additional air in the mixer helps reduce emissions by creating a leaner burn, which will enable the GE9X to have a 30% margin to CAEP/8 standards for NOx.
The GE9X engine will be in the 100,000 pound thrust class. Key features include a 133-inch diameter composite fan case and 16 composite fan blades; a next-generation 27:1 pressure-ratio 11-stage high-pressure compressor; a third-generation TAPS III combustor for high efficiency and low emissions; and CMC material in the combustor and turbine.
The first demonstration core test is scheduled for 2015. The first engine will test in 2016 with flight-testing on GE’s flying testbed anticipated in 2017. Engine certification is scheduled for 2018.
Source and image: GE aviation