GE Aviation tests new engine core

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EVENDALE, Ohio, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- A new engine core being developed by GE Aviation for the U.S. Air Force -- designed to help improved fuel efficiency -- is undergoing testing.

The engine core, part of the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory's ADaptive Versatile ENgine Technology, is made of lightweight, heat-resistant ceramic matrix composite materials.

GE Aviation said the core, together with an adaptive low pressure spool, will improve an engine's fuel efficiency 25 percent, increase operating range 30 percent and boost engine thrust as much as 10 percent.

"The ADVENT engine is a revolutionary military engine," said Jeff Martin, GE Aviation's general manager for the ADVENT program. "Packaged together, GE's variable-pressure-ratio fan, CMC materials and high-pressure-ratio core technologies will enable the Air Force to meet the aggressive performance targets required for future missions."

Initial technology tests are underway and a full engine test will be conducted next year when the ADVENT program ends. Further development of the core, however, will continue through the Air Force's Adaptive EngineTechnology Development program.