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Mark Phelps

Rolls-Royce's experimental Advance3 civil aerospace engine is now running at full power, the company announced this week at the Farnborough Airshow. Release of the news followed on the heels of the UK government Monday confirming further funding for R-R’s future engine designs.

 


The Advance3 demonstrator is built around a new engine core developed for optimum fuel efficiency and low emissions. The new core is a fundamental element in the upcoming UltraFan engine. Run at full power, the Advance3 is gathering engine performance data across more than 2,800 parameters.

 


In addition, the UK also confirmed further funding for other Rolls-Royce future technology projects, such as the E-Fan X program, a joint hybrid-electric project involving R-R, Airbus, and Siemens. Work continues on an Avro RJ100 testbed aircraft that is expected to fly as early as 2020. Rolls is currently planning to ground test the project’s flying generator—the world’s most powerful—before year-end.

 


Also on Monday, R-R announced further UK government funding for research on all-electric propulsion. Together with new partner YASA, Rolls is leading exploration in using a high-power electrical system in a demonstrator aircraft. YASA manufactures high-power, lightweight electric motors, and controllers for automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications.

 


Taking advantage of R-R’s experience in aero engines and their safety and reliability requirements, the team hopes to flight test the system to explore the practical potential of electric flight. Rob Watson, director of electrical at R-R said, “The increased use of electrical systems is an inescapable trend in our markets and championing electrification is a core part of our long-term strategy at Rolls-Royce."

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