HIGH SPEED CIVIL TRANSPORT Propulsion System Studies

An evaluation was made of advanced technology engine cycles, low emissions combustors and low noise exhaust nozzles which identified payoffs for advanced propulsion technology in terms of aircraft gross weight, stratospheric cruise emissions and airport noise reduction. Two types of variable cycle engines were studied; turbine bypass engine (TBE) and variable stream control engine (VSCE). Results of the study showed the TBE is clearly superior to the VSCE for Mach 2.4 and Mach 3.2 cruise. Critical component technologies which must be developed and validated before full scale engine development were also identified on the basis of system viability, technological challenges and degree of risk.