STROF - Lightweight structures for Open Fan engine demonstrator
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | GKN Aerospace Sweden AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 8 000 000 |
| Project duration | May 2024 - May 2026 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Demo call - SME focus |
| Call | Demo announcement - SME focus |
Purpose and goal
The project focus on the development, manufacture and validation of complex engine modules for the international OEM-led demonstrator engine Open Fan. Validation to TRL5-6 will be carried out in a full-scale engine test by the OEM. The purpose of the project is to strengthen the competitiveness of the participating companies. Together we will demonstrate technology for application in next-generation mid-sized medium-range aircraft.
Expected effects and result
The environmental effect at aircraft level is to reduce CO2 emissions by 30% with contribution from Open Fan engines. GKN´s components are partly enablers for the Open Fan architecture, but the goal is also that they should be 15% lighter than the competitors´ and also manufactured more sustainably with reduced material consumption. In the project, several components will be manufactured 100% using innovative additive manufacturing methods.
Planned approach and implementation
The project has three work packages; 1. GKN´s engine module-1 development, manufacturing, validation in engine test 2. GKN´s engine module-2 development, manufacturing, validation in engine test 3. Develop an SME supply chain. The project will be conducted according to GKN´s methodology for demonstrator development and TRL maturation, with documented design reviews and TRL reviews.