GE Aerospace Makes Hypersonic Leap with Successful RDC Engine Demonstrations
GE Aerospace has achieved a significant breakthrough in hypersonic propulsion. The company successfully demonstrated two rotating detonation combustion (RDC) engines, a missile-scale ramjet and a dual-mode ramjet for high-speed aircraft. This marks a major step forward in GE Aerospace's hypersonic propulsion programs.
The RDC technology, developed by GE Aerospace's Edison Works, enables higher thrust and improved efficiency at a smaller engine size and weight. It combusts fuel and air through detonation waves instead of traditional deflagration combustion.
The demonstration was a result of collaboration between GE Aerospace, Hermeus, GE Aerospace-Innoveering, and the GE Aerospace Research Center. Together, they achieved a threefold increase in throughput compared to previous hypersonic technology demonstrators. Tests with the latest RDC engines began in February 2023.
GE Aerospace engineers have proven the scalability of their RDC designs. In just 10 months, they advanced from a legacy ramjet to a 3X scale demonstrator featuring RDC. The test campaign exceeded expectations, showing robust operation and a significant increase in engine airflow.
GE Aerospace's successful demonstration of RDC engines brings us closer to high-speed flight and extended range across various platforms. The company's collaboration with Hermeus, GE Aerospace-Innoveering, and the GE Aerospace Research Center has been instrumental in this achievement. With this milestone, GE Aerospace continues to lead the way in hypersonic propulsion development.
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