ASTEC: Affordable Power Today

Throughout the operational life of rotorcraft, operational requirements will often change. These changes may result from the need for additional equipment, increased payload, or range extension. In improving the overall operational capability, rotorcraft will almost always require additional engine power and/or improved fuel bum, while retaining or enhancing reliability and low operational costs. During the initial stages of an engine development program, the fundamental design philosophy shapes the ability to provide cost-effective power growth solutions for the future. From its conception, the Rolls-Royce Turbomeca (RRTM) RTM322 engine has been designed with power growth potential as a primary requirement. This paper examines the RTM322 engine design philosophy and explains how the ASTEC program utilizes advanced technologies to provide a simple and cost-effective approach to power growth.