Snecma remains a leader in its markets through a strong emphasis on research, technology, development and engineering.
Bolstering performance in these critical areas calls on scientific partnerships with leading research organizations and laboratories, whether in France (ONERA, CEA, CNRS, universities), in Europe or internationally (for example, Snecma started a partnership in 2002 with the Ecole Centrale de Lyon engineering school and four Chinese universities). At the same time, Snecma sets up technology-oriented partnerships with fellow manufacturers, and continually leverages internal competencies to foster synergies in all areas of R&D.
Joint programs with General Electric on the CFM56 engine
The TECH56 program, in conjunction with GE, is designed to lay the groundwork for future generations of CFM56 turbofans, through advanced R&D on all major components of commercial aircraft engines. Primary objectives are to improve fuel consumption, efficiency, environmental-friendliness, maintenance costs and reliability. Technology demonstrations of engines operating under actual conditions were successfully completed in 2004.
Based on some of the technologies validated by the TECH56 program, Snecma and GE have set up an improvement program specifically targeted to the CFM56-5B and -7B engine models. The two main objectives of this program are to reduce maintenance costs and integrate the upcoming CAEP VI emission standards.
In 2005 Snecma and GE launched a new technology development program, dubbed LEAP56, to identify and validate the propulsion solutions needed for future generations of single-aisle jetliners.
Joint research programs in France
Snecma participates in a number of Research & Technology programs with some 60 partners in France, including CNRS (national scientific research agency), CEA (atomic energy commission), ONERA (national aerospace research agency), etc. The main programs are listed below.
INCA
Snecma faces three major challenges in developing next-generation combustion systems: failsafe operation, minimal environmental impact (reduction of NOx, soot, etc.), and competitive costs. To meet these challenges, Snecma, along with research agencies ONERA and CNRS, has launched programs to foster continuous improvement and also identify innovative, even “disruptive” technologies.
To make their collaboration even more effective, they have pooled their skills within INCA, the French acronym for “Advanced Combustion Initiative”. Its goal is to leverage French combustion expertise, and ensure that Snecma maintains its position as a top-tier player in all related technologies.
MAIA
The Advanced Mechanical Engineering Methods initiative (French initials, MAIA) launched by Snecma pools the talents of the group’s own design departments with 22 laboratories at French research agencies ONERA (aerospace) and CNRS (science). Their aim in the coming years is to develop capabilities in robust computation, structural vibration and dynamics, modeling of composite materials and contacts, and lifespan forecasts for hot and cold structures. This research will maintain Snecma at “head of class” in these technologies.
Snecma’s in-house research programs
Snecma also conducts its own R&T programs, with support from various French agencies (DPAC, DGA, CNES). A few of the main programs are listed here.
SCORES
the French abbreviation for effective, silent composite fan using RTM (resin transfer molding), aims to validate the aerodynamic, acoustic and mechanical design of a large diameter fan for new engines meeting the most stringent requirements for fuel consumption and noise. It is supported by the French civil aviation program directorate, DPAC. This development is largely based on a patented Snecma technology for a multi-dimensional woven carbon composite fan blade using the RTM process. Not only does it significantly lighten the blade, it also greatly enhances resistance to bird ingestion and reduces production costs.
TPTech
Snecma is working on a new turbopump, “TPTech”, with support from French space agency CNES. Still in the experimental stage, this turbopump confirmed the operability of new technological solutions in 2004. Based on these results, Snecma has now started production of a Vulcain-class turbopump, but with production cost cut in half thanks to a simplified design and reduced parts count.
HIGH-TEMPERATURE PLATFORM (PHT)
The PHT program, funded by French defense procurement agency DGA, aims to develop the technologies needed for tomorrow’s high-thrust military aero-engines. The PHT test platform is a core engine fitted with the compressor and a few subassemblies from the M88 (Rafale’s engine). It includes a double annular combustor and a high-pressure, very-high-temp turbine incorporating cutting-edge technologies. Several series of tests have been carried out since 2001 to check resistance of the advanced single-crystal alloys, cooling circuits and thermal barriers to turbine inlet temperatures of 2050K.
DEM21 - COMMERCIAL CORE DEMONSTRATOR
This program aims to apply the technologies developed by Snecma to a new-generation core for a commercial jet engine, refining the company’s expertise in hot parts. The core is sized for the regional jet class. Used in conjunction with a low-pressure section incorporating proven advanced technologies, the DEM21 core is designed from the outset for certification of a commercial jet engine. It comprises a compact 6-stage compressor with a high pressure ratio, a low-emissions combustor and a single-stage, very-high-temp turbine. These latter two components use technologies directly derived from the PHT program, among others.