On September 15, 2021, the Aviadvigatel’s team completed the assembly of the demo PD-35 core engine.
The PD-35 Engine Project has been implemented by United Engine Corporation (JSC “UEC”) since 2017. No domestic 35-ton thrust gas turbine engines have ever been developed before. While implementing the Program, the research and technological groundwork established during the development of the PD-14 engine is being used to the maximum extent possible, and the work is underway to master 18 new “critical” technologies in creating new materials, coatings, design solutions and processes.
Activities in a development of the demo core engine and the engine technology demonstrator are in progress to optimize the engineering solutions for high-thrust engines, as well as to demonstrate the readiness of the new technologies to be used in the new engine design. The developed core engine will become in the future the baseline for the 24 to 38 ton-force derivative engines for the advanced wide-body passenger and transport aircrafts.
For the time of project activities, the Aviadvigatel team has made a centerline-based concept of the demo core engine, developed its components and systems, issued design documentation and launched its production. During 18-month period, the UEC enterprises worked hard to manufacture the PD-35 core engine parts and components, and to set up the test facilities:
- a high pressure compressor rotor was made by UEC-UMPO;
- a stator part of the high pressure compressor, combustor, high pressure turbine were made by UEC-Aviadvigatel, UEC-PM, NFMZ;
- a center drive was made by SALUT Manufacturing facility of UEC;
- the ACS accessories were developed by UEC-STAR, ABRIS and the others;
A number of high-tech enterprises established in Perm krai and in the Russian Federation were involved to optimize the manufacturing process.
According to Alexander Inozemtsev, Managing Director – General Designer, JSC UEC-Aviadvigatel, the core engine has already been installed now on a closed test bench and is being tested under standard atmosphere following the approved program. “The testing shall show the general structural operability of the core engine. In addition, based on the results, it will be possible to assess the component parameters defined in the technical requirements specification,” Mr. Inozemtsev says.
On October 1, 2021, an Idle mode was achieved, stable operation of the core engine components and systems was ensured. The tests are under way.
The next test phase will be carried out at the Central Institute of Aviation Motors. Within Test Phase II the demo core engine will be tested for operation with the pressurized heated air infeed, thus simulating the operating conditions of the core incorporated into the engine. Presently, CIAM is intensively building a special-purpose test bench.
