FANTASTIC (Nacelle Project)

Future Advance Nacelle Technologies And Structural Integration Concepts (FANTASTIC) is a five year, ATI grant funded R&D project, which commenced on 01 October 2018. It is led by Short Brothers PLC (t/a Spirit AeroSystems Belfast, formerly t/a Bombardier Aerospace Belfast), and includes participation and investment by the following consortium partners: Datum Tool Design Ltd, Impression Technologies Ltd, CCP Gransden Ltd, Nacelle Group Holdings Ltd and S&C Thermofluids Ltd. The aim is to help ensure that Spirit AeroSystems Belfast, and UK aerospace in general, are positioned as global leaders in the design, development and production of aircraft engine nacelles, including engine and aircraft integration capability.

The project will focus on several key areas of nacelles including: Inlet; Thrust Reverser Unit (TRU); Engine Build Unit (EBU), and Integration, to support the realisation of propulsion systems of the future e.g. Ultra-High Bypass Ratio (UHBR) and new Business Jet Turbines. Major project themes include: development of design and manufacturing techniques for laminar flow; novel anti-icing and TRU designs; design optimisation for Lightning Direct Effects; new fire safety requirements; and, improved engine, nacelle and airframe integration tools.