Geometry model and approach for future blisk LCA

Abstract

Air traffic is expected to double over the next 20 years and Flightpath 2050 targets to a 70 % reduction of CO2 and a 90 % reduction of NOx. Optimization of future aircraft engines often is dominantly driven by a focus on the reduction of fuel burn and emissions during operation. To identify additional environmental improvement potential a full Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) shall be aspired also including Materials, Processes and Resources, Manufacture and Production, Lifetime Services as well as Reuse, End-of-Life and Recycling. Core engine components, for example integral rotors, are comprised of Titanium- or Nickel-alloys and require complex manufacturing processes. A geometry design model of a compressor blisk is introduced which is employed as basis for a future LCA approach focusing on materials, processes and resources as well as manufacture and production. The model is a carrier for challenging manufacturing features such as large blade twist, high aspect ratio and small blade gaps. In addition to the geometry model, a first set of multiple technology scenarios and their process chains will be introduced which will serve as base for a future LCA.