PEEBLES, OHIO -- The GEnx-2B engine that will power the new Boeing 747-8 airplane demonstrated 70,950 lbs. of takeoff thrust during ground testing yesterday at GE's outdoor testing facility in Peebles, Ohio.
Ground testing on the GEnx engine began with idle runs on February 29 and reached 70,950 lbs. of standard day sea-level takeoff thrust on March 11.
"This achievement marks a significant milestone in the GEnx-2B program," said Tom Brisken, general manager of the GEnx program. "The initial results of the ground tests are extremely positive, and we look forward to preparing the engine for flight tests on GE's flying test bed later this year."
The certification program for the GEnx-2B engine will involve five engines. Engine certification is anticipated in first half of 2009 with entry into service in late 2009.
With more than 1,100 engines sold to date, the GEnx is the fastest-selling engine in GE's history. Based on the proven architecture of the GE90, the GEnx will succeed GE's CF6 engine. Compared to the CF6, the GEnx will offer 15 percent improved fuel efficiency which translates into 15% less C02. It is designed to stay on wing 30 percent longer than the CF6, while using 30 percent fewer parts, greatly reducing maintenance.
The GEnx emissions will be as much as 95 percent below current regulatory limits. The GEnx will also be the quietest engine that GE has produced based on a pound of thrust per decibel ratio. As the world's only jet engine with both a front fan case and fan blades made of carbon fiber composites, the GEnx will also have greater durability, less weight as well as lower operating costs than comparable engines in its class.
"The GEnx-2B engines serve a critical role in the efficiency gains offered by the 747-8 family," said Ross R. Bogue, vice president and general manager, 747 program and Everett site for Boeing. "It will help the 747-8 provide our customers with improved fuel efficiency, reductions in emissions and noise, while allowing customers to generate additional revenue with their ability to carry more passengers and cargo."
The GEnx-2B engine is optimized for the Boeing 747-8 aircraft, but still shares the engine core and 80 percent of the line replaceable units (LRUs) as the GEnx-1B that powers the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. In addition, the engine will benefit from the experience of GE's most extensive development program to help ensure unrivaled engine maturity prior to entry into service.
To date, more than 400 GEnx-2B engines have been sold on the Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental and Freighter.
IHI of Japan, TechSpace Aero of Belgium, Avio SpA. of Italy, Volvo Aero of Sweden and Samsung Techwin of Korea are revenue-sharing participants in the GEnx program.
The GEnx is part of GE's "ecomagination" product portfolio -- GE's commitment to develop new, cost-effective technologies that enhance customers' environmental and operating performance.
GE Aviation, an operating unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of commercial and military jet engines and components as well as integrated digital, electric power, and mechanical systems for aircraft. GE Aviation also has a global service network to support these offerings.