Rolls-Royce has flight tested the ALECSys (Advanced Low Emissions Combustion System) engine. The engine mounted on the Boeing 747 took to the sky in Tucson, Arizona, USA. In the test program, in which flights up to 40.000 ft, ie 12,19 km, were carried out, engine ignitions were successfully completed in different conditions.
The tested low-level combustion system improves the mixing ratio of fuel and air before ignition, resulting in cleaner combustion of fuel. Thanks to this system, lower nitric oxide and particulate emissions are achieved.
A number of ground tests were previously performed with the ALECSys demonstration engine, including icing, water absorption, ground operation, emissions and operation with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
Simon Burr, Director of Civil Aviation Product Development and Technology at Rolls-Royce, said:
“We are very pleased to see the ALECSys engine take off. This test reveals all aspects of not only engine efficiency but also our environmental performance. The Rolls-Royce ALECSys engine also aims to expand the use of SAF. This engine is also an important part of our sustainability strategy, which includes research into alternative technologies.”
In-flight testing of ALECSys' low emission technology is an indication that the engine can operate at high altitudes. ALECSys also brings with it significant experience in how low-level combustion engines can be operated before they are put into service in the future.
ALECSys is within the scope of the UltraFan engine program, which provides 25% fuel savings compared to the first generation Trent engines. The ALECSys program is supported by the EU's Clean Sky programme, and the UK's Aerospace Technology Institute and Innovate UK.
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