Rolls-Royce gets new business jet engine running

摘要

Rolls-Royce is developing a new business jet engine, with ground testing having begun last year, according to informed sources. Cold weather trials have been conducted at the Glacier facility in Thompson, Manitoba since September last year, they indicate. R-R last year introduced a new family of business jet power-plants, having been selected by Bombardier to power its Global 5500 and 6500, which are set to enter service this year with Pearl 15 engines, rated at 15,100lbthrust (68kN). When it unveiled the new powerplant, based on its Advance 2 technology, R-R said the Pearl 15 would be part of a new family of engines for applications spanning the 10,000-20,000lb-thrust range. It is not clear if the new engine under test fits within that family, or is a separate programme. Potential applications could include a re-engining of Bombardier's Challenger 650, which is equipped with 9,220lb-thrust GE Aviation CF34-3B turbofans.