Rolls-Royce has announced a new milestone in the development of its next-generation of civil aerospace engines as its Advance3 demonstrator reaches full power. Meanwhile, the UK government has confirmed further funding for the development of technologies that could be incorporated into future engine designs.

The Advance3 demonstrator is testing a new engine core designed to deliver optimum fuel efficiency and low emissions. It is a key element in Rolls-Royce’s future technology strategy to develop the Advance core for the UltraFan engine design.

The full-power milestone was achieved earlier this month in Derby, UK, as part of a demonstrator test programme that is gathering engine performance data across more than 2,800 parameters.

Meanwhile, the UK government has confirmed funding for a range of projects which will support the UltraFan engine development programme, including:

• CEMTEC – The development of Silicon Carbide-based Ceramic Matrix Composite technologies for future engine architectures, helping to reduce fuel consumption through reduced component weight while also improving cyclic life and reducing manufacturing lead times.

• CHASM – The design, integration and manufacture of new technologies to support the development of a power gearbox.

• IPCRESS – The development of an intermediate pressure compressor that is integrated with the UltraFan power gearbox.

• SUSSUDIO – A Rolls-Royce led project to develop the detailed design of an ultra-high bypass ratio gas turbine engine demonstrator.

The government also announced its support for the E-Fan X programme, a partnership between Airbus, Rolls-Royce and Siemens that will seek to demonstrate the technologies required for hybrid-electric flight. An AVRO RJ100 demonstrator aircraft is expected to take to the skies as early as 2020. Ground testing of the world’s most powerful flying generator is due to start before the end of this year.