GE Aerospace has received FAA certification for its new Catalyst turboprop engine. The certification process, conducted under FAR Part 33 requirements, involved testing of 23 engines and more than 190 components. The engine completed over 8,000 hours of operation during the certification phase.
The Catalyst engine represents the first new centerline turboprop design of the 21st century to receive certification. The certification process incorporated more than 20 new requirements, making it the first turboprop engine to be certified under these updated standards.
Technical specifications of the Catalyst include a 16:1 overall pressure ratio, which enables up to 18% improved fuel consumption compared to similar engines in its class. The engine also delivers up to 10% higher cruise power than competitors. Notable features include two stages of variable stator vanes, cooled high-pressure turbine blades, and components manufactured using additive manufacturing technology.
The development of the Catalyst engine spans multiple European locations, with manufacturing and design work conducted at GE Aerospace facilities in Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Germany. The engine will power the Beechcraft Denali aircraft, with Textron Aviation currently working through its certification process.
“The certification of the Catalyst engine is a significant milestone for our company and a proud moment for all our team members who have dedicated their efforts to the design, development, and testing of this brand-new European turboprop engine,” said Riccardo Procacci, President and CEO, Propulsion and Additive Technologies at GE Aerospace.
Source: geaerospace.com
