CFM International Is on schedule to begin a demanding 5,000-cycle endurance test program of the 3-D Woven Resin Transfer Molding (3-DW RTM) fan in the coming weeks as development of the advanced LEAP-X engine continues.

CFM initiated ground test of a full-scale 3-DW RTM fan installed on a CFM56-5C MASCOT (Moteur à Aubes de Soufflante en COmposite Taille) demonstrator engine in early 2009. At Snecma (Safran group) facilities in Villaroche, France, MASCOT completed aerodynamic and performance testing before going to GE facilities in Peebles, Ohio. It has successfully logged 165 hours of extensive crosswind and acoustics testing to measure noise levels under various operating conditions. MASCOT will accumulate approximately 400 additional hours full-scale in 2010 and 2011.

In addition, CFM has performed scores of component and rig tests, including bird ingestion and blade out tests that simulate certification requirements of the proprietary 3-DW RTM technology. The LEAP-X development program is on schedule for engine certification in 2014.

"We have achieved outstanding results, fully in line with our pre-test expectations," said Francois Bastin, LEAP-X program director for CFM International. "We have successfully simulated the complete range of engine certification tests and are confident the technology is ready for production. We will continue to refine and test various blade designs to optimize the final configuration for the first full LEAP-X1C engine test in early 2013."

The LEAP-X fan will feature 18 blades, a 50 percent reduction versus the CFM56-5C and 25 percent fewer blades than the CFM56-7B.