Nexcelle provides components for CFM Int'l LEAP-1C engine

Nexcelle, the joint venture between Aircelle (Safran) and Middle River Aircraft Systems GE Aviation, which develops the next generation of platforms for integrated propulsion systems, has delivered its first nacelle component O-Duct for the future airliner C919 COMAC equipped with LEAP-1C CFM International engines.

 

"Innovation is at the heart of development pods Nexcelle, and our O-Duct illustrates the contributions of our concept of integrated propulsion systems for aircraft manufacturers and airlines. "Abella says Michel, president of Nexcelle.

 

Designed and manufactured by Aircelle, the component thrust reverser O-Duct is a major step for Nexcelle in deliveries of production equipment that will be used with other components used in the engine in-flight tests.

 

Nexcelle has also delivered the first air inlet to Middle River for the LEAP-1C. This component has been assembled on an engine for development and LEAP is right now in the testing phase.

 

The composite structure in one piece O-Duct is a technological breakthrough in the design of platforms for integrated propulsion systems, since replacing the thrust reverser traditional two-piece D-Duct. To deploy, the O-Duct slides backward in the thrust reversal position, thus eliminating the drag normally associated in the secondary air flow of the engine. This optimization of the internal airflow improves fuel consumption while increasing the efficiency of the thrust reverser.

 

A key feature of the O-Duct lies in its design as a single piece, an internal carbon composite skin on 330° of circumference. This component is produced in the plant Aircelle Le Havre in France, thanks to an innovative molding process used for the first time with this program. The first O-Duct was delivered to the GE Aviation facility in Peebles, Ohio, for assembly with other nacelle components, before installation on the flight-tests CFM unit.

 

Aircelle and Middle River Aircraft Systems will produce a first batch of 18 platforms, which will be used for the flight tests or other tests such as testing ground icing or crosswinds.

 

Since its inception in 2008, Nexcelle has been selected as supplier of nacelles two major engine programs: the Integrated LEAP-1C CFM International's COMAC C919 and Passport GE engine propulsion system for business aircraft and Bombardier Global 7000 and Global 8000.