Mar 3 2005
GKN Aerospace has been selected by General Electric Company (GE) to develop & manufacture the front fan containment case for the new GEnx Engine which will power the Boeing 787 airliner.
This will be the first fan containment case for a commercial aircraft programme to be manufactured entirely from composite materials and represents a further advance by GKN into the aero-engine sector.
It will benefit from GKN’s intensive composite technology development programme, which has led to new material and process developments which bring considerable cost benefits as well as dramatic improvements in product consistency and quality.
The fan case’s composite properties will provide a tough, resilient structure that eliminates the potential for corrosion allowing for greater engine durability. The composite materials also provide a dramatic weight reduction for the GEnx engine.
James J. Fitzsimmons, President and CEO of GKN’s Aerostructures Division said:
“The GEnx is the next generation of aero-engine technology. The new fan containment case which GKN will develop and manufacture for the GEnx is designed to meet Boeing’s aggressive weight and performance targets on the 787 Dreamliner. GKN is pleased to be expanding our relationship with GE. This programme represents a significant extension of our leading-edge composites expertise into the aero-engine sector - a move of strategic importance to the business.”
The GEnx engine is planned for certification in 2007.
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